Chandrababu Naidu Unveils Plans for Irrigation Project Completion
Synopsis
In a significant announcement, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reveals plans to create a blueprint for completing irrigation projects in Andhra Pradesh, reinforcing the coalition government's commitment to water supply across the state.
Key Takeaways
The Andhra Pradesh government is committed to enhancing water supply through a new irrigation blueprint.
Rs 20,000 crore has been invested in irrigation over the last 20 months.
Key projects include the Polavaram, Veligonda, and Pattiseema irrigation schemes.
Groundwater levels have improved significantly, benefiting agricultural practices.
Linking river systems is essential for maximizing water resources.
Amaravati, Feb 26 (NationPress) Emphasizing the coalition government's dedication to providing water across all regions of Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu declared on Thursday that a comprehensive blueprint for the completion of irrigation projects will be formulated shortly.
During a discussion on budget provisions for the irrigation sector in the Assembly, the Chief Minister highlighted the government's commitment to water security, a critical factor for attracting investments and fostering industrial growth.
He underscored the importance of river interlinking from Vamsadhara to Penna to guarantee adequate water supply to every area in the state and mentioned that plans are being developed to achieve this.
In the past 20 months, the government has allocated Rs 20,000 crore for irrigation, which has enabled water delivery to the Paramasamudram tank in Kuppam via the Handri Neeva canal.
Naidu noted that all significant irrigation projects were initiated during the TDP era, including the Telugu Ganga, Galeru Nagari, and Handri Neeva projects launched under former Chief Minister NT Rama Rao, aimed at supplying water to Rayalaseema. The Pattiseema lift irrigation scheme has successfully delivered 100 TMC of water to the region.
He assured that the Veligonda project will be finalized to benefit Markapuram and Prakasam districts. Additionally, he mentioned that the Polavaram project is set to be completed before the Godavari pushkaram, and the Chintalapudi lift irrigation scheme will be finished to deliver water to the elevated regions of Krishna and Eluru districts.
The Chief Minister reported that a total of 793 tmc of water is stored in various state reservoirs and efforts are underway to ensure water availability for paddy planting starting May 15.
He proudly stated that Andhra Pradesh leads the nation in micro irrigation. Thanks to the state government's initiatives for water security, groundwater levels have improved to 7.3 meters, resulting in power savings amounting to Rs 91 crore.
Naidu assured that linking the Polavaram and Nallamala Sagar projects would not disadvantage anyone, as surplus Godavari water currently flowing into the ocean will be redirected to benefit both Telugu states.
He clarified that he has never opposed Telangana's Kaleshwaram project and reiterated the coalition government's commitment to ensuring water supply reaches every acre in the state.
Point of View
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu's announcement regarding the preparation of a blueprint for irrigation project completion reflects a strategic move towards enhancing water security in Andhra Pradesh. This initiative not only aims to support agricultural needs but also seeks to bolster economic development through improved water management.
NationPress
9 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the blueprint announced by Naidu?
The blueprint aims to complete irrigation projects across Andhra Pradesh, ensuring water supply to all regions.
How much has been spent on irrigation in the last 20 months?
Rs 20,000 crore has been allocated to the irrigation sector during the past 20 months.
What projects are mentioned in the announcement?
The announcement references the Telugu Ganga, Galeru Nagari, Handri Neeva projects, and the Veligonda project.
How does the government plan to ensure water availability?
The government plans to interlink rivers and implement various irrigation schemes to secure water supply.
What is Andhra Pradesh's standing in micro irrigation?
Andhra Pradesh is recognized as a leader in micro irrigation across India.
