Former Gannavaram MLA Vallabhaneni Vamsi Mohan has urged Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to intervene regarding sudden power cuts affecting Polavaram canal farmers.

Key Takeaways

  • Sudden power cuts to agricultural pump sets in Polavaram Right Canal area.
  • Thousands of farmers' Kharif crops are at high risk.
  • Former MLA Vallabhaneni demands immediate restoration of electricity.
  • Call for a high-level committee to draft a scientific water-sharing policy.

In a significant development from the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh, former Gannavaram MLA and YSRCP leader Vallabhaneni Vamsi Mohan has written a formal letter to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu. The letter highlights the dire situation of farmers relying on the Polavaram Right Main Canal for irrigation.

According to the letter, the sudden disconnection of electricity to agricultural pump sets has jeopardized the livelihoods of thousands of families. Villages such as Seetharampuram, Marribandham, Remalle, and Veleru are among those facing an imminent agricultural disaster as their Kharif crops face dehydration.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that this crisis is a result of sudden administrative enforcement following orders from the District Collector. While the electricity department claims the action was conducted under the supervision of irrigation and revenue departments, farmers argue they were given no prior notice or opportunity to explain their situation.

The sudden withdrawal of power mid-season is a catastrophic blow to farmers who have invested heavily in seeds, fertilizers, and equipment.

Vallabhaneni pointed out that since 2015, farmers have been openly using water from the Pattiseema and Polavaram canals through motors, with the tacit approval of the government. Having invested millions in infrastructure, they now face bankruptcy due to these abrupt changes in policy.

Historical Background

The Polavaram project is a cornerstone of Andhra Pradesh's water management strategy. For over a decade, farmers in the command area have integrated canal water usage into their seasonal farming cycles, relying on regulated electricity supply to sustain their crops.

Did You Know?: The Polavaram project is one of India's largest multi-purpose river valley projects, crucial for both irrigation and power generation.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the immediate demand of the farmers?
The immediate demand is the suspension of the Collector's order and the immediate restoration of electricity to save the Kharif crops.

2. What long-term solution has been proposed?
The formation of a high-level committee comprising irrigation experts, officials, and farmer representatives to create a scientific water-sharing plan.