What Did the Ghose Commission Find About the Kaleshwaram Project?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Justice PC Ghose Commission has unveiled its extensive report on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation project, shedding light on significant irregularities. With political implications and a thorough investigation, what does this mean for the Telangana government moving forward?
Key Takeaways
- Investigation led by Justice PC Ghose into Kaleshwaram project.
- Focus on irregularities in planning and execution.
- Over 115 witnesses interviewed during the inquiry.
- Political implications for the BRS and Congress.
- Cabinet set to discuss future actions.
Hyderabad, July 31 (NationPress) The Justice PC Ghose Commission, which investigated the purported irregularities in the implementation of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation project, has officially submitted its findings to the Telangana government on Thursday.
Led by retired Supreme Court Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose, the Commission presented its report to Irrigation Department Secretary Rahul Bojja, who subsequently forwarded it to Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao.
The inquiry focused on alleged inconsistencies in the planning, design, construction, quality control, operation, and maintenance of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla Barrages of the Kaleshwaram project, which was established by the previous administration of the Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS).
The one-person Commission was established on March 14, 2024, to investigate these claims.
In October 2023, some piers of the Medigadda Barrage collapsed. Following the Congress party's rise to power in December 2024, a probe by the Vigilance Department was initiated. The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) was also tasked with investigating all facets of this mega project.
After the initial findings by the Vigilance Department pointed out irregularities, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy announced a judicial inquiry during an Assembly debate.
The Commission's term has been extended seven times since the initial period concluded on June 30, 2024. As of May, the term was prolonged until July 31.
Following the recent extension, the Commission summoned BRS president and former Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao (KCR), along with former ministers T. Harish Rao and Eatala Rajender.
KCR appeared in front of the Commission on June 11, where he faced questions regarding the project's redesign and the financial and policy decisions made during its construction.
KCR reportedly provided a detailed report on the project to the Commission, emphasizing essential features and the necessity for redesign and re-engineering.
The BRS has refuted any claims of corruption related to the Kaleshwaram project, labeling the summons to KCR as a political vendetta by the Congress government.
Over the past 15 months, the Ghose Commission has interviewed more than 115 witnesses, including engineers and both retired and current officials linked to the barrages.
The State Cabinet is anticipated to deliberate on the Commission's report during its upcoming meeting and determine the next steps.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the implications of the Justice PC Ghose Commission's findings. While the investigation sheds light on potential mismanagement, it also highlights the need for accountability and transparency in governance. The situation calls for a balanced response from the Telangana government to ensure public trust.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation project?
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation project is a major water management initiative in Telangana, aimed at providing irrigation and drinking water supply.
Who constituted the Ghose Commission?
The Ghose Commission was constituted by the Telangana government to investigate alleged irregularities in the Kaleshwaram project.
What are the key findings of the report?
The report highlights irregularities in planning, design, and construction, prompting discussions on accountability and future actions.
How many witnesses were examined by the Commission?
The Commission examined over 115 witnesses, including engineers and officials associated with the project.
What is the next step for the Telangana government?
The State Cabinet is expected to review the Commission's report in its next meeting to decide on future actions.
