The AP State Energy Department has decided to temporarily shut down its hydel power generation unit at Upper Sileru in the Eastern Ghats bordering Odisha, in Alluri Sitarama Raju district. This decision has been taken as an energy conservation measure to save water resources for peak summer needs. By saving water, the State government can avoid spending money on purchasing power from open markets when demand is high. The move is aimed at ensuring adequate power supply for all consumers and preparing for potential water shortage in the catchment areas. However, the temporary shutdown of the Sileru hydel project has resulted in the suspension of water supply to the rabi crop in the Godavari delta.