Handri-Neeva Project Achieves Record Water Draw, Exceeds Designed Capacity
The irrigation department in Vijayawada has set a remarkable record by drawing 40.109 TMC of water within just 190 days from the Handri–Neeva project. This achievement is particularly significant as it surpasses the project's designed capacity of 40 TMC, marking the highest volume of water ever drawn since the project's commencement.
Ministers Express Gratitude and Highlight Progress
Rayalaseema region ministers Payyavula Keshav and BC Janardhan Reddy, along with Rayadurg MLA Kalva Srinivasulu, recently met Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu to express their gratitude for this milestone. During the meeting, Minister Payyavula Keshav recalled the progress made over the years. He noted that between 2014 and 2019, water was drawn using only one pump, but during that period, extensive works were undertaken to enhance the capacity, allowing the operation of 6 pumps.
Minister Keshav further emphasized that after the coalition government came to power, the pumping capacity was significantly increased from 6 pumps to 12, showcasing a commitment to improving water infrastructure. This upgrade has been crucial in achieving the current record water draw.
Record-Breaking Achievements and Future Targets
Minister BC Janardhan Reddy pointed out another impressive feat to the chief minister: the widening of the Handri–Neeva canals was completed within 100 days, setting a record in itself. This rapid completion has facilitated more efficient water distribution and contributed to the overall success of the project.
Irrigation Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu highlighted the importance of the Muchumarri project, which is part of the Handri–Neeva scheme. He described it as a major turning point, with its construction enabling successful water supply to the Rayalaseema region. Rayadurg MLA Kalva Srinivasulu echoed this sentiment, stating that the earlier decision to construct the Muchumarri project was the key reason why water is being supplied to Rayalaseema at such a large scale today.
While the record of drawing water beyond the designed capacity has already been set, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has set a new ambitious target: to draw 50 TMC of water. In response, Irrigation Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu assured the chief minister that steps would be taken to transfer an additional 10 TMC of water by the end of February or the first week of March, thereby achieving a total transfer of 50 TMC.
This proactive approach underscores the government's dedication to enhancing water resources and supporting agricultural and community needs in the region.
