A high-level delegation from the Polavaram Project Authority (PPA) conducted a detailed inspection of the ongoing construction at the Polavaram irrigation project on Wednesday. The team expressed satisfaction with both the pace and the quality of the work being carried out at this critical national infrastructure site.
Comprehensive Site Visit by Top Officials
The inspection was led by PPA Chief Executive Officer Yogesh Paithankar, who was visiting the site for the first time since assuming his role. He was accompanied by key officials including Member Secretary M Raghuram, Chief Engineers CV Subbaiah (Power) and M Ramesh Kumar, and Director K Shankar. The visit, which lasted from around 11 am to 2:30 pm, involved a thorough review of all major components to assess adherence to approved timelines.
Officials from the state's water resources department and representatives from the executing agency, Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Limited (Meil), provided detailed briefings on the current status and future execution plans. CEO Paithankar personally reviewed each major component, interacting extensively with on-site engineers and seeking clarifications on technical and execution aspects.
Focus on Critical Structures and Hydropower Component
The delegation inspected all critical structures of the massive Polavaram irrigation project. The sites covered included:
- The main spillway and diaphragm wall
- Gap 1 and Gap 2 sections
- Upstream and downstream cofferdams
- The Polavaram Hydroelectric Power Project site
At the hydropower component site, which is being executed by Meil, Chief Operating Officer ANG Satish Babu provided a detailed explanation. He outlined key construction milestones, the status of equipment installation, and the projected timelines for future work.
Emphasis on Timely Completion and National Priority
Prior to the field visit, the PPA team held a comprehensive review meeting to assess both physical and financial progress. Officials assured the delegation that all works are proceeding according to the targets set by the Central Water Resources Ministry, the PPA, and the state government.
Emphasizing the national importance of the Polavaram Project, CEO Yogesh Paithankar stated that the central government is giving it high priority. He directed officials and the executing agency to strictly adhere to approved schedules, maintain the current momentum, and ensure uncompromised quality standards. He stressed that avoiding delays is crucial, as the timely completion of the project is vital for irrigation, drinking water supply, and overall regional development.
Detailed planning and coordination are underway to ensure the project is completed by 2027. This timeline aligns with the objective of finishing the work ahead of the next Godavari Pushkarams, a significant religious festival. The inspection also saw participation from a large team of senior officials from quality control and engineering wings, underscoring the focus on technical excellence.
