Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu today stressed the importance of water security for the development of all sectors in the state. Speaking during a teleconference with irrigation officials and water users’ associations, the Chief Minister announced that a statewide Water Security Responsibility Programme will be implemented tomorrow onwards.

 

The 100-day Water Security Action Plan, to be formally launched tomorrow from Tadipatri in Anantapur district, will focus on water conservation and resource protection in four phases, with irrigation associations playing a key role. The Chief Minister said the initiative aims to make the state drought-free, ensuring adequate groundwater levels during summer and monsoon seasons. 

 

Mr Naidu directed departments of irrigation, agriculture, Panchayat Raj, forests, and animal husbandry to coordinate efforts while calling on citizens, farmers, and Gram Panchayats to make water security a people’s movement.

 

The government has identified 5,697 groundwater-stressed villages and aims to raise water levels by at least 1.5 metres through filling tanks and improving storage capacity. Drawing from the successful ‘Project Jaladhara’ in Annamayya, the Chief Minister urged linking streams, rivulets, and water bodies to maximise retention and prevent flooding.

 

He also emphasised using satellite imagery and hydrological mapping for scientific planning, while directing irrigation associations to prepare Water Budgets and conduct Water Audits.