Polavaram Project Authority CEO Conducts Detailed Review of Irrigation Works
In a significant development for the Polavaram Irrigation Project, Polavaram Project Authority (PPA) chief executive officer Yogesh Paithankar undertook an extensive review of construction progress during his visit to the project site in Rajahmundry on Saturday. The visit followed Paithankar's arrival from New Delhi, where he had previously engaged with international experts regarding the project's advancement.
Comprehensive Review Meeting with Project Officials
Upon his arrival, Paithankar immediately convened a detailed review meeting with key project stakeholders. The meeting included PPA chief engineer M Ramesh Kumar, senior officials from the state water resources department, and representatives from the executing agency responsible for construction activities. During this session, officials provided comprehensive updates on the current status of all construction operations.
This review comes shortly after a team of foreign experts spent four days at the Polavaram project site during the last week of January to examine work progress. These international specialists had offered multiple suggestions and recommendations, subsequently meeting with Paithankar in New Delhi to discuss their observations. The CEO's current visit specifically aimed to assess ground-level developments following those expert consultations.
On-Site Inspection of Critical Construction Components
During the afternoon, Paithankar conducted a thorough on-site inspection of several crucial construction elements, including Gap-1, Gap-2, and the Earth-Cum-Rock Fill (ECRF) dam works. Officials from both the water resources department and MEIL (the executing agency) provided detailed explanations of ongoing construction processes and milestones achieved to date.
The PPA CEO expressed satisfaction with both the pace and quality of the works being executed, indicating positive momentum in the project's implementation. This hands-on assessment allowed for direct observation of construction methodologies and progress verification.
Focus on Rehabilitation and Resettlement Measures
Beyond physical construction, Paithankar also reviewed the progress of rehabilitation and resettlement (R&R) measures for families affected by the project. He emphasized the critical importance of completing these activities within established timeframes, recognizing their significance for project-affected communities.
Speaking during the review, Paithankar stated that both the Central and state governments maintain firm commitment to completing the Polavaram Project within the stipulated timeframe. He directed officials and the executing agency to develop and strictly adhere to a structured action plan ensuring timely completion of all project components.
Assurances for Expedited Approvals and Continuous Coordination
Paithankar further assured that necessary design approvals and clearances required for the project would be granted at the earliest possible opportunity to prevent unnecessary delays. He reiterated that the Centre and State governments are maintaining continuous coordination and consultations to expedite completion of this nationally significant irrigation initiative.
The comprehensive review underscores the ongoing commitment to advancing this critical infrastructure project, which holds substantial importance for regional irrigation and water management. The combination of technical assessments, rehabilitation oversight, and intergovernmental coordination reflects a multifaceted approach to project implementation.
