Polavaram Works Progressing Rapidly: Minister Nimmala

Andhra Pradesh Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu conducted a field inspection of the Polavaram Project in Eluru district and reviewed the progress of the ongoing works. He inspected the Earth-cum-Rock Fill (ECRF) dam and sought details from officials on the construction status. According to the minister, 49% of Gap-1 and 43% of Gap-2 works have been completed. He said the right connectivity works are targeted for completion by the end of September, while the left connectivity works are expected to be completed by November. The government has set a target of completing the ECRF dam works by March 2027.

Ramanaidu said 10,491 acres of land had been acquired since June 2024 and ₹2,250 crore had been provided as compensation to displaced families. He also criticised the previous government over land acquisition and compensation for project-affected families and alleged that ₹3,850 crore received as reimbursement from the Centre was not utilised for the project or displaced people. He said the government aims to spend ₹35,000 crore over the next three years to complete 36 irrigation projects. The minister maintained that completing Polavaram would strengthen the state’s irrigation and drinking water resources. Official audit records have also documented issues related to land acquisition, rehabilitation and resettlement, and project execution.