Flowing Forward: HNSS Phase-1 Recharges Rayalaseema's Future

The Andhra Pradesh government has successfully completed Phase-1 of the Handri-Neeva Sujala Sravanthi (HNSS) canal expansion project, marking a major milestone in improving water availability across the Rayalaseema region.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is set to release water into the upgraded canal at the Malyala Pumping Station in Nandyal district. With an investment of ₹696 crore, the canal’s carrying capacity has been increased from 2,200 cusecs to 3,850 cusecs — a boost of 1,600 cusecs. This enhancement will enable the Jeedipalli Reservoir to reach full capacity, supporting irrigation and drinking water needs for over 33 lakh people in Kurnool, Anantapur, and Chittoor districts.

The 216-kilometre expansion will also recharge key reservoirs at Krishnagiri, Pattikonda, and Gajuldinne, significantly improving local groundwater levels. For the first time in 12 years, the region will fully utilise its 40 TMC floodwater allocation.

Under Phase-1, irrigation coverage will extend to 2,906 acres in Nandyal, 77,094 acres in Kurnool, and 1.18 lakh acres in Anantapur. Phase-2 will expand this further to 2.27 lakh acres in Anantapur, 37,500 acres in Kadapa, and 1.40 lakh acres in Chittoor, with an additional allocation of ₹3,890 crore for both phases.

This transformative project promises to revitalize agriculture, bolster drinking water supply, and strengthen the region’s overall water resilience.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.