Irrigation – Andhra Pradesh Clears Long-Pending Pedda Gedda Reservoir Modernisation Plan
Irrigation – The Andhra Pradesh government has moved a significant step closer to improving irrigation facilities in the Pedda Gedda Reservoir command area by approving the long-awaited Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management (CADWM) project. The decision, cleared during the latest state cabinet meeting, is expected to accelerate work that has remained stalled for years, bringing renewed hope to thousands of farmers across Parvathipuram-Manyam and Vizianagaram districts.
Cabinet Approves Revised Project Cost
The state cabinet has approved a revised project estimate after allowing an increase of nearly 14.8 percent over the earlier sanctioned cost. The project has already received administrative approval for ₹73.55 crore, and official government orders are expected shortly. Once the formal notification is issued, construction activities are likely to begin without further delay.
The upgraded irrigation system is expected to provide dependable water supply to around 7,567 acres of agricultural land, strengthening farming activity and improving water distribution in the region.
Reservoir Plays Key Role in Regional Farming
Pedda Gedda Reservoir is one of the most important irrigation sources serving farmers in the northern districts of Andhra Pradesh. The project was originally designed to irrigate nearly 12,221 acres spread across Pachipenta and Salur mandals in Parvathipuram-Manyam district, along with Ramabhadrapuram mandal in Vizianagaram district.
Over the years, however, inadequate maintenance of the canal network has reduced the efficiency of water delivery, particularly affecting farmers located at the tail end of the irrigation system. During every Kharif season, many cultivators have struggled to receive sufficient water for their crops, resulting in repeated demands for a comprehensive upgrade.
Earlier Modernisation Effort Remained Incomplete
An earlier proposal to modernise the reservoir infrastructure had received financial approval under the previous state government. Although work commenced, only projects worth about ₹3 crore were completed before construction came to a halt. Officials attributed the interruption to pending payments, which prevented contractors from continuing the remaining works.
As a result, the irrigation network continued to deteriorate, leaving several sections of the canal system in need of urgent improvement.
CADWM Scheme to Improve Water Efficiency
The Water Resources Department has now included the Pedda Gedda Reservoir under the Modernisation of Command Area Development and Water Management programme. The initiative operates as part of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), with financial support shared between the Central and Andhra Pradesh governments in a 60:40 ratio.
Under the approved plan, authorities will introduce underground pipeline systems alongside existing canals to improve the movement of irrigation water. The upgraded network is expected to reduce water losses, increase distribution efficiency, and ensure that agricultural fields across the command area receive more reliable irrigation.
Minister Thanks Chief Minister for Fast-Tracking the Project
The Andhra Pradesh government had granted administrative approval for the reservoir modernisation in January 2026 with an estimated expenditure of ₹73.55 crore. Following the latest cabinet decision, the project has effectively crossed its final administrative stage.
Tribal Welfare Minister Gummidi Sandhyarani said she had requested Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu to personally intervene and expedite the approval process so that the pending work could resume. She expressed gratitude to the Chief Minister for giving priority to the project and ensuring cabinet clearance, describing the decision as an important step toward strengthening irrigation infrastructure and supporting the farming community in the region.
The completion of the modernisation project is expected to enhance agricultural productivity, improve water management, and provide long-term benefits to thousands of farmers who rely on the Pedda Gedda Reservoir for irrigation.