International Dam Experts to Inspect Polavaram Project
A team of foreign experts will arrive in Vijayawada to conduct a detailed inspection of the Polavaram Project construction works. The four-day technical review begins on January 19 and continues through January 22.
Comprehensive Site Assessment Planned
The Panel of Experts includes three international dam safety specialists. Sean Hinchberger, David B Paul, and Gian Franco Di Cicco will lead the inspection team. They will examine critical components of the massive irrigation project.
Senior officials from the Central Water Commission will accompany the foreign experts. Representatives from CSMRS and CWPRS will also join the inspection team. The Polavaram Project Authority will coordinate the entire visit.
Daily Site Inspections and Technical Discussions
The experts plan to visit multiple construction sites each day. They will inspect Gap-1, D-Hill, and Gap-2 areas of the project. The G-Hill section will also receive detailed examination.
Upstream and downstream portions of the main dam require careful assessment. The team will also examine the D-Wall structure and dewatering channel. Rock fill areas and clay stockyards form part of the inspection itinerary.
Review meetings will occur daily with project officials. The experts will engage with representatives from both Central and state water resources departments. Construction agency officials will participate in technical discussions.Key Project Components Under Scrutiny
The inspection team will review sand reach and construction materials quality. ECRF dam plans will receive particular attention during the review. Spill channel and approach channel works require expert evaluation.
Special Chief Secretary G Sai Prasad will join the inspection activities. Advisor M Venkateswara Rao will participate in technical discussions. Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Limited representatives will accompany the team.
Final Meetings and Delhi Discussions
On January 22, the experts will meet the chief engineer at Rajamahendravaram. This meeting concludes the field inspection portion of their visit. The team then travels to New Delhi for high-level discussions.
In Delhi, the experts will meet with the CEO of the Polavaram Project Authority. Union water resources ministry officials will participate in these discussions. The team returns to their home countries on January 24.
Strengthening Technical Oversight
This international review aims to strengthen technical oversight of the project. The experts will provide advisory inputs for quality assurance. Safety considerations remain a primary focus throughout the inspection.
Timely execution of construction works requires expert guidance. The Polavaram Project represents one of India's key irrigation initiatives. This multipurpose project serves both agricultural and power generation needs.
The technical review supports smooth project execution. International expertise helps ensure world-class construction standards. Both state and central authorities welcome this collaborative approach to project monitoring.
