Andhra Pradesh Government Unveils Major Irrigation Revival Plan
In a significant announcement at the state Assembly, Irrigation Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu declared the government's unwavering commitment to restoring and maintaining all irrigation projects, canals, and drainage systems across Andhra Pradesh. The minister presented a detailed revival strategy aimed at safeguarding farmers' interests and stabilizing agricultural water supply.
Criticism of Previous Administration's Neglect
During the Question Hour session, Ramanaidu highlighted the severe deterioration of the irrigation maintenance system under the previous YSRCP government. He stated that this neglect had critically impacted ayacut (irrigated land) and drinking water supply throughout the state. The minister provided a stark example, citing the Yanamadurru drain where 46 out of 54 inlets are currently in dilapidated condition.
"The failure to perform even basic upkeep has resulted in extensive damage to essential infrastructure," Ramanaidu observed, emphasizing the consequences of administrative oversight.
Financial Disparity in Maintenance Spending
Ramanaidu presented compelling financial comparisons to illustrate the contrasting approaches between administrations. He revealed that during the five-year tenure of the previous regime, only ₹200 crore was allocated for Operation and Maintenance (O&M) of irrigation systems. In striking contrast, the current coalition government has already expended ₹708 crore on these crucial activities within its first year alone.
The minister alleged that routine maintenance tasks—including desilting operations, repairs to locks and shutters, replacement of ropes, and greasing of mechanical components—were systematically ignored under the previous administration, leading to the current infrastructure crisis.
Alarming State of Lift Irrigation Schemes
The minister painted a particularly grim picture of lift irrigation schemes across Andhra Pradesh. According to his assessment, 613 out of 1,008 lift systems are currently defunct, with only 158 operating at full capacity. This widespread dysfunction has disrupted irrigation to nearly 4 lakh acres of agricultural land.
"Not a single rupee was allocated for repairs over the last five years, forcing numerous lift schemes to cease operations entirely," Ramanaidu stated, highlighting the severity of the situation.
He provided a specific case study of the Paidimetta lift scheme, which has received no maintenance since 2019, resulting in nearly half of its designated ayacut being deprived of essential water resources.
Comprehensive Restoration and Maintenance Strategy
To address this multifaceted crisis, the government has developed a comprehensive action plan. The proposal includes:
- Allocation of ₹595 crore for restoring 611 lift irrigation schemes to operational status
- Implementation of a five-year Operation and Maintenance plan with a budget of ₹765 crore
- Systematic repair, modernization, and ongoing maintenance of all irrigation projects
Ramanaidu emphasized that the government's primary objective is to revive critical irrigation infrastructure, stabilize ayacut areas, and ensure that farmers do not suffer due to administrative neglect.
"We are committed to systematically repairing, modernizing, and maintaining every irrigation project to protect the agricultural foundation of our state," the minister assured the Assembly, outlining the administration's strategic priorities for agricultural water management.
