Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has unequivocally instructed officials to accelerate the Polavaram irrigation project works, aiming for their full completion before the eagerly anticipated Godavari Pushkarams in 2027. He further stressed the importance of promptly securing all necessary clearances from the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
During a comprehensive review meeting held at the Secretariat in Amaravati on Friday, Mr. Naidu asserted that there would be absolutely no room for compromise on the quality of work. He mandated that the critical earth-cum-rockfill construction of the main dam must commence in November 2025 and be finalized by December 2027. Similarly, all components including the Polavaram right canal tunnel, its approach channel, and the head regulator works are expected to strictly adhere to their designated timelines.
Officials from the Water Resources Department (WRD) provided an update, confirming that out of a total of 63,656 cubic metres of diaphragm wall construction, 37,302 cubic metres have already been finished, with the buttress dam works reported as 100% complete.
The Chief Minister specifically directed that the Polavaram left main canal works, extending up to Anakapalli, must be brought to completion by January 2026. He also urged for the swift resolution of any pending land acquisition and rehabilitation issues.
Beyond the project’s primary function, Mr. Naidu encouraged officials to explore and develop the Polavaram project site as a premier tourism destination. He put forth the innovative idea of constructing an iconic road to seamlessly connect the project to the national highway. To ensure continuous oversight of progress, he added that Closed Circuit cameras should be installed across the site and integrated with the Real-Time Governance Society (RTGS).
The meeting saw the attendance of key figures, including Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu and Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand.