The ₹775 Crore Splash: Transforming AP’s Irrigation Landscape

The Andhra Pradesh State Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, has approved major irrigation projects with a combined administrative sanction exceeding ₹775 crore.

The decisions are aimed at accelerating key water resource projects, improving irrigation efficiency, and supporting farmers across the state. A major focus is the Polavaram Project, including the rehabilitation of displaced families. District Collectors have been authorised to fix compensation at ₹4.20 lakh per acre for affected landowners, ensuring a fair and streamlined process. The Cabinet also approved the continuation of work on the Polavaram Lift Scheme to secure drinking water supply during drought conditions.

In addition, the Cabinet cleared water allocation from the Gandikota Reservoir for the proposed 2,400 MW Koppolu pumped hydro storage project. Efforts to expedite works under the Handri–Neeva Sujala Sravanthi (HNSS) scheme were also approved, including completion of pending works under Package 36A, canal improvements at km 188.200, and modernisation of the Punganur Branch Canal to enhance water flow.

Further, maintenance of lift irrigation schemes in Kurnool district has been sanctioned to provide irrigation support to areas not covered by existing canal networks.

Collectively, these initiatives are expected to strengthen water management, boost agricultural productivity, and deliver long-term benefits to communities dependent on irrigation.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.