CM Naidu Reviews Major Irrigation Projects, Sets Timelines for Completion
Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu conducted a comprehensive review of major irrigation projects in Andhra Pradesh on Tuesday, setting a firm deadline for the completion of Veligonda Stage-I works by the end of June. During the meeting at his camp office with officials from the water resources department, Naidu emphasized the need for efficient water distribution through the Polavaram project's canals to meet irrigation and other requirements across the state.
Focus on Godavari Waters and Project Deadlines
Naidu directed officials to prepare a detailed action plan for the utilization of Godavari waters once the Polavaram project is fully operational. He stressed that water released through the right and left main canals of Polavaram must be effectively channeled to reservoirs and tanks to optimize agricultural and domestic use. The review covered a wide range of projects including Polavaram, Veligonda, Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi, and the Polavaram-Nallamala Sagar link, alongside groundwater augmentation initiatives like Jaladhara and Jal Harathi programmes.
Accelerating North Andhra and River Interlinking Works
The Chief Minister issued instructions to speed up works on North Andhra irrigation projects such as Tharakarama, Mahendratanaya, Thotapalli Barrage, Maddulavalasa, Janjavathi, and Hiramandalam Lift schemes. He also established clear deadlines for river interlinking projects, setting December for the Vamsadhara-Nagavali link and July for the Nagavali-Champavathi link. With legal hurdles now cleared, Naidu directed officials to expedite the tender process for the Neradi Barrage on the Vamsadhara river in Srikakulam district.
Polavaram as a Tourism Hub and Project Updates
In a visionary move, Naidu proposed developing the Polavaram project into a major tourist destination. He suggested plans for hotels, shopping areas, and beautification of the surrounding regions. Officials were asked to explore boating facilities from Polavaram to Papikondalu and Bhadrachalam, along with developing attractions based on water, rock formations, forests, and sports activities. During the meeting, officials informed the Chief Minister that the project cost is estimated at Rs 2,042 crore and reported that 52 TMC of Srisailam backwaters have been successfully diverted to Rayalaseema through the Malyala Lift scheme.
