The AP State Water Resources Department has successfully completed the Polavaram Irrigation Project Left Main Canal (PIPLMC), paving the way to interlink Godavari water with the Thandava, Varaha, and Sarada rivers.
- Construction of Polavaram Irrigation Project Left Main Canal (PIPLMC) is now complete.
- Detailed proposals ready to link Godavari water to Thandava, Varaha, and Sarada rivers.
- 23.44 TMC of water to be supplied to Visakhapatnam city and Anakapalli district.
- Irrigation coverage for 1.5 lakh acres and drinking water for 4 lakh residents.
The Andhra Pradesh State Water Resources Department has achieved a landmark milestone with the completion of the Polavaram Irrigation Project Left Main Canal (PIPLMC). Spanning 213.409 km from Nelakota in Polavaram district to the Meghadri Gedda Reservoir in Visakhapatnam, the canal is designed to revolutionize the water supply infrastructure in north coastal Andhra Pradesh.
The project gained significant momentum following the directives of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu during his visit to Darlapudi village on July 11, 2024. The CM emphasized the urgent need to secure 23.44 TMC of water for the urban needs of Visakhapatnam and the agricultural requirements of the surrounding rural belts in Anakapalli.
Infrastructure Impact and Distribution
The main canal and its integrated distribution network are set to cater to an ayacut of approximately 1.5 lakh acres. This will directly benefit 204 villages across several mandals, including Nakkapalli, S. Rayavaram, Payakaraopeta, Yelamanchili, Rambilli, Kasimkota, and Anakapalli. In the initial phase, water will be supplied via gravity to 56 minor irrigation tanks, stabilizing nearly 14,000 acres.
Why This Matters
BozokMedia analysis shows that this interlinking framework is a critical adaptation strategy against climate volatility. By diversifying water sources, the state is mitigating the risks associated with deficient rainfall and El Niño cycles. This ensures that the agricultural sector remains resilient even during drought-prone years, securing the livelihoods of thousands of farmers.
"The interlinking of the PIPLMC with minor irrigation sources and open head channels ensures maximum resource utilisation, providing a reliable safety net for farmers against erratic weather patterns." - P. Appala Naidu, Superintending Engineer.
Technical interventions include the diversion of 325 cusecs near Tuni for the Thandava system and 586 cusecs for the Varaha river basin. Furthermore, 350 cusecs will be channeled through Mamidiwaka Gedda to support the Sarada river network. Beyond irrigation, the project provides a critical lifeline by supplying drinking water to 290 villages, serving a population of 4 lakh people.
| River/System | Water Flow (Cusecs) | Impacted Area (Acres) |
|---|---|---|
| Thandava River | 325 | 14,795.15 |
| Varaha River | 586 | 26,652.63 |
| Sarada River | 350 | - |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the total length of the PIPLMC canal?
A: The canal runs for 213.409 km from Nelakota to the Meghadri Gedda Reservoir.
Q2: What is the 'Jala Harathi' programme?
A: It is a formal event on September 2, 2026, where CM N. Chandrababu Naidu will officially release Godavari water to the Anakapalli and Visakhapatnam districts.
