Andhra Pradesh CM N. Chandrababu Naidu Initiates Godavari Water Utilisation Plan
Synopsis
Andhra Pradesh's Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called for an action plan to utilize Godavari waters post-Polavaram Project completion, emphasizing efficient distribution and groundwater initiatives. His vision includes turning the Polavaram site into a major tourist hub with exciting recreational options.
Key Takeaways
The action plan for Godavari water utilization is underway.
Focus on efficient distribution to meet irrigation needs.
Groundwater augmentation programs are being reviewed.
Plans for Polavaram as a tourist destination are in motion.
Completion deadlines for key projects have been established.
Amaravati, April 15 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, has instructed officials to develop a comprehensive action plan for the effective use of Godavari waters following the completion of the Polavaram Project.
He underscored the necessity for efficient distribution of water from both the right and left main canals to various reservoirs and tanks to fulfill irrigation and other essential requirements.
In a review meeting with the Water Resources department, the Chief Minister evaluated the advancements in significant irrigation initiatives, including Polavaram, Veligonda, Handri–Neeva Sujala Sravanthi, Polavaram–Nallamala Sagar Link, Chintalapudi Lift Irrigation Scheme, Varikapudiselu, and various North Andhra projects.
He also examined programs aimed at enhancing groundwater supply, such as the Jaladhara and Jal Harathi initiatives.
The Chief Minister urged officials to hasten the execution of North Andhra projects, including Tharakarama, Mahendratanaya, Thotapalli Barrage, Maddulavalasa, Janjavathi, and Hiramandalam Lift schemes. He established deadlines for interlinking rivers: Vamsadhara–Nagavali by December and Nagavali–Champavathi by July.
With hurdles now removed, he instructed that tenders for the notable Neradi Barrage on the Vamsadhara River in Srikakulam district be issued promptly.
The Chief Minister envisions transforming the Polavaram Project into a key tourist attraction, featuring hotels, shopping areas, and beautification efforts in the surrounding regions.
Plans are underway to offer boating facilities from Polavaram to Papikondalu and Bhadrachalam, alongside various water, rock, forest, and sports-themed recreational options.
He directed officials to accelerate efforts to inaugurate the project in time for the Godavari Pushkarams.
The completion of the Veligonda stage-I is set for the end of June, with an estimated investment of ₹2,042 crore.
Officials disclosed that 52 TMC of Srisailam backwaters have already been redirected to Rayalaseema through the Malyala Lift. The Chief Minister noted that due to the state government's initiatives, groundwater availability has reached 625 TMC as of April 1, indicating a rise of 12 TMC compared to the previous year.
Groundwater levels have improved by 0.79 meters across the state. In 5,697 villages, groundwater is accessible within an 8-meter depth, as the Chief Minister noted.
The meeting was attended by Minister for Water Resources Nimmala Ramanaidu, Chief Secretary G Sai Prasad, and senior officials.
Point of View
This initiative by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reflects a proactive approach towards water resource management and aims to elevate the region's agricultural and tourism potential. It signifies a commitment to sustainable development and strategic planning in Andhra Pradesh.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Polavaram Project?
The Polavaram Project is a multi-purpose irrigation project aimed at providing irrigation, hydropower generation, and drinking water supply to the state of Andhra Pradesh.
How will Godavari waters be utilized?
The waters will be efficiently distributed to reservoirs and tanks to support irrigation and meet various other needs once the Polavaram Project is completed.
What are the key initiatives mentioned?
Key initiatives include groundwater enhancement programs, various irrigation projects, and plans for developing Polavaram as a tourist destination.
What deadlines were set for the interlinking of rivers?
The Chief Minister set deadlines for the Vamsadhara–Nagavali interlinking by December and Nagavali–Champavathi by July.
What improvements in groundwater levels have been reported?
Groundwater availability reached 625 TMC, showing an increase of 12 TMC compared to the previous year, with levels improving by 0.79 meters statewide.
