CM Says Water to Be Released From Veligonda Project’s First Phase on Aug. 31
The CM pointed out that he has proposed Krishna-Godavari-Cauvery river-linking at the Southern Zonal Council meeting
VIJAYAWADA: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Friday announced that water from the first phase of the long-pending Veligonda Project will be released on August 31 to serve the drought-prone areas of Markapuram, Prakasam, Nellore and Kadapa districts. The CM made the announcement at his camp office in Amaravati while handing over cheques totalling ₹250 crore to families displaced by the project under the third phase of the project. With the latest disbursement, the coalition government has paid ₹768 crore to 6,206 displaced families in 48 days. In the first phase, 2,557 families have been paid compensation of ₹318 crore. In the second phase, ₹200 crore have been extended to 1,622 families. The latest phase covers 2,027 families, which have been paid ₹250 crore. An additional amount of ₹132 crore is required to complete the compensation process. Water released from the first phase is expected to provide irrigation to 1.19 lakh acres and drinking water to nearly four lakh people in four districts.
Recalling his association with the project since 1995, Naidu said the government has spent ₹2,250 crore over the last two years to complete the first phase of the project and release water.
Referring to the prevailing water situation, the Chief Minister said the state is facing a significant rainfall deficit owing to El Nino conditions. Inflows into the Srisailam and Nagarjunasagar reservoirs remain inadequate. He stressed the need for economic use of water.
Naidu said the government is working towards completing the Polavaram project, strengthening water availability to the Krishna delta, and conserving water in Srisailam for Prakasam, Nellore, Kadapa and the Rayalaseema region. The CM pointed out that he has proposed Krishna-Godavari-Cauvery river-linking at the Southern Zonal Council meeting. He asserted that linking the five southern rivers could address water shortages across four states.
The displaced families welcomed the compensation and progress of the project. Farmer Kashireddy said delays under the previous government had caused hardships. Another farmer Bogem Srinivasulu said it is satisfying to see that the project which Naidu conceived is nearing completion.
Displaced woman Ushamma said families have received their compensation in full and are satisfied with the facilities provided at the rehabilitation colonies. The Chief Minister assured tap water to every household in Markapuram district under the Jal Jeevan Mission. He announced that the foundation stone for a horticulture hub would be laid in September. He underlined that the Ramayapatnam Port would help farmers export their horticultural produce and boost their incomes.
