Irrigation – Andhra Pradesh Unveils Major River Linking and Irrigation Expansion Roadmap
Irrigation – Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday highlighted the long-term benefits of river interlinking projects, stating that the Pattiseema Lift Irrigation Scheme has played a crucial role in strengthening the Krishna delta. According to him, the project has enabled the transfer of nearly 450 TMC of surplus Godavari water since 2015, contributing to agricultural stability and economic growth across the state.
Traditional Ceremony Marks River Confluence Event
Wearing traditional attire, the Chief Minister participated in the Jalaharathi ceremony at Pavitra Sangamam in Ibrahimpatnam of NTR district, the location where the waters of the Godavari and Krishna rivers meet. He also took part in special religious rituals before offering floral tributes to renowned engineer Dr. K. L. Rao on the occasion of his 124th birth anniversary. Addressing those gathered at the event, Naidu announced that the government intends to invest Rs 35,000 crore over the next three years to complete 36 priority irrigation projects. He said the broader objective is to establish an integrated river network connecting major rivers from Vamsadhara to Penna.
Pattiseema Project Credited for Delta Stability
Responding to criticism that surrounded the Pattiseema Lift Irrigation Scheme when it was launched, the Chief Minister defended the project by describing it as a key contributor to irrigation security in the Krishna delta. He said the scheme consistently supplies around 80 TMC of water every year, benefiting nearly 13 lakh acres of farmland. Naidu explained that the project diverts surplus floodwater from the Godavari through the Polavaram Right Canal into the Krishna basin, helping conserve water at the Srisailam reservoir and making additional supplies available for the drought-prone Rayalaseema region.
Allegations Over Delayed Polavaram Progress
The Chief Minister also criticised the previous YSRCP government, alleging that major irrigation infrastructure was neglected during its tenure. He claimed that between 2014 and 2019, the TDP government completed around 72 percent of the Polavaram project’s work, whereas progress during the following five years remained below two percent. According to Naidu, this delay resulted in serious damage to the project’s diaphragm wall and affected overall development.
He further alleged that maintenance of several important water structures had been ignored, claiming that even after damage to gates at the Gundlakamma and Pulichintala projects, adequate repair and upkeep were not carried out. Naidu described Polavaram as a critical project for Andhra Pradesh and said such delays had impacted the state’s long-term irrigation plans.
Government Announces Continued Infrastructure Upgrades
Highlighting ongoing efforts under the present administration, Naidu said the NDA government has already completed the installation of new gates at the Tungabhadra Dam. He also referred to the recently launched Rs 152 crore project aimed at replacing gates at the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage in Dowleswaram, describing it as part of broader efforts to strengthen the state’s irrigation infrastructure.
KL Rao’s Legacy to Inspire Future Generations
Paying tribute to the late engineer Dr. K. L. Rao, the Chief Minister recalled his significant contributions to several landmark irrigation and dam projects across India, including Srisailam, Nagarjuna Sagar, Hirakud and Kosi. He also acknowledged Rao’s international recognition through his work with the United Nations. Naidu announced that village-level awareness programmes would be organised to introduce young people to Rao’s achievements and encourage interest in engineering and water resource management.
Focus on Water Conservation and Groundwater Recharge
Looking ahead, Naidu said the state government will implement the Jaladhara initiative to improve water conservation practices. The programme aims to scientifically capture rainwater, enhance groundwater recharge and strengthen water availability for agriculture and rural communities over the long term.
The public gathering was attended by Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu, Revenue Minister Anagani Satya Prasad, Health Minister Y. Satya Kumar Yadav, Mylavaram MLA Vasantha Krishna Prasad, along with several other public representatives and officials.