State endowments minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy and Nellore TDP MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy inaugurated six safe water plants in Atmakur on Tuesday. This initiative aims to mitigate the drinking water woes faced by local residents.
Addressing Water Scarcity in Marripadu Mandal
Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy highlighted a critical issue during the inauguration ceremony. He pointed out that Marripadu mandal stands alone among the forty-six mandals in the combined Nellore district. This area lacks access to both irrigation and drinking water sources.
The minister explained the situation clearly. Marripadu mandal depends entirely on rain-fed water to meet its drinking water requirements. In contrast, the remaining forty-five mandals benefit from canals and irrigation projects. These projects provide them with reliable water for both irrigation and drinking purposes.
Chief Minister's Directive for Somasila Project
Anam Ramanarayana Reddy recalled a significant development. Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu visited the Somasila project soon after returning to power in 2024. The chief minister issued a clear directive to the irrigation department. He instructed officials to expedite the Somasila high level canal works on a war-footing.
This urgent action aims to extend irrigation and drinking water access to Marripadu mandal. The goal is to integrate this neglected area into the district's water infrastructure.
Appreciation for VPR Foundation's Efforts
The minister expressed gratitude towards Nellore MP Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy. He thanked the MP for establishing six drinking water plants across the Atmakur assembly constituency. These plants operate under the VPR Foundation's Amrithadhara scheme.
Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy provided additional context about the Somasila project. He noted that the high level canal works were conceived earlier. A substantial allocation of Rs 1600 crore was made for execution.
However, the MP criticized the previous YSRCP government. He stated that they completely mishandled the project. This mismanagement caused severe delays in both execution and completion.
Renewed Momentum Under New Government
Vemireddy Prabhakar Reddy expressed optimism about the project's future. He observed that the Somasila high level canal works gained momentum once again. This revival occurred after the TDP-led NDA alliance returned to power in the state.
The Nellore MP voiced confidence in timely completion. He believes the project will now proceed efficiently under the current administration's oversight.
The inauguration of these six water plants marks a crucial step. It addresses immediate drinking water needs in Atmakur while broader irrigation solutions develop through the Somasila project.
