Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu stressed that all irrigation projects must be completed within the stipulated time, warning officials and agencies of strict action in case of delays.
Assessing the progress of major irrigation projects through a video conference on Tuesday, the minister expressed his displeasure at the slow pace of work, especially in lining the tunnel under the Veligonda project.
He said repeated assurances of improvement were unacceptable and those responsible for the delay would be summoned to Amaravati to explain.
Mr. Ramanaidu said that the government is committed to complete the irrigation works as per priority and fixed deadlines for each project. He emphasized that officials, engineers and contractors must work with responsibility and coordination.
The minister also reviewed the progress on the Polavaram Left Main Canal and directed that the work to ensure Godavari water supply up to Anakapalli be completed before the coming season. He directed officials to speed up the construction of bridges at highway crossings.
He noted that after the Polavaram and Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi project, the left main canal work of Veligonda and Polavaram is being given priority.
The Minister said weekly progress reports of the Veligonda work should be submitted to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. He added that steps are being taken to release rehabilitation allowances to the displaced families soon.
Mr. Ramanaidu said the government’s aim is to complete the works at Veligonda by June so that the Nallamala Sagar can be filled as directed by the Chief Minister.
The review meeting was attended by senior officials including Irrigation Advisor Venkateswara Rao, ENC Narasimha Murthy and project engineers.
Published – 25 March 2026 0:17 IST
