Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu announced a comprehensive plan to accelerate major irrigation works and revive 1,040 stalled lift irrigation schemes across Andhra Pradesh.

Key Takeaways

  • Polavaram irrigation project is targeted for completion by March 2027.
  • ₹600 crore to be released for Veligonda project-displaced families soon.
  • A 10-year maintenance plan is being developed for 1,040 IDC lift schemes.
  • Polavaram is also being envisioned as a major river-based tourism hub.

The Andhra Pradesh government is aggressively pushing forward with its flagship irrigation projects and a mission to revive stalled lift irrigation (LI) schemes, according to Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu. Speaking to the media in Vijayawada, the Minister outlined a clear-cut roadmap to ensure water security for the state's farmers.

Major Milestones in Polavaram Project

Minister Ramanaidu revealed that 90% of the civil works for the Polavaram irrigation project have been successfully completed. While the original deadline was December 2027, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has fast-tracked the schedule, aiming for completion by March 2027. The Minister highlighted the resilience of the workforce, noting that construction continued even during the recent Godavari floods, which saw flows of 14 lakh cusecs.

Reviving Lift Irrigation and Veligonda Works

A significant portion of the government's focus is on the Veligonda project, where ₹600 crore is slated for disbursement to displaced families between August 17 and 24. Additionally, the state is addressing the deterioration of 1,040 Irrigation Development Corporation (IDC) lift schemes. Currently, only 150 of these schemes are fully operational, affecting nearly eight lakh acres of land. To combat this, a 10-year repair and maintenance plan is being drafted.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the revitalization of these irrigation networks is critical for stabilizing the agrarian economy of Andhra Pradesh. By addressing both mega-dams and localized lift schemes, the government is attempting to bridge the gap between water availability and agricultural demand.

The strategic shift toward a 10-year maintenance cycle for lift schemes marks a transition from mere construction to sustainable resource management.
Did You Know?: The Polavaram project is being designed as a tourism destination, featuring an iconic connectivity bridge and river-based tourism between Polavaram and Bhadrachalam.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the new deadline for the Polavaram project?
The project is now targeted for completion by March 2027.

2. How many IDC lift schemes are being revived?
The government is working on a 10-year plan to revive 1,040 lift irrigation schemes.