Polavaram Project Adheres to Approved Technical Specifications, Says Top Official
VIJAYAWADA: Water Resources Department Engineer-in-Chief (ENC) Narasimha Murthy has categorically dismissed allegations concerning the quality and design compliance of the Polavaram project. He asserted that the construction is proceeding strictly in accordance with approved technical parameters and vetted drawings.
No Deviations from Approved Designs
Narasimha Murthy emphasized that every structural component of the massive irrigation project is being executed based on designs cleared by the Panel of Experts (PoE) and the Central Water Commission (CWC). "The Polavaram project is being constructed strictly in line with the designs approved by the Panel of Experts and the Central Water Commission. There is absolutely no deviation from the approved specifications," the ENC stated firmly.
He specifically mentioned that spillway works, earth-cum-rock fill dam sections, the diaphragm wall, and approach channels are all being built following these technical clearances.
Addressing Panel of Experts' Observations
The ENC addressed concerns previously raised by the PoE during inspections. "The observations made by the Panel of Experts were carefully examined and necessary rectification measures were carried out immediately. The panel has reviewed the corrective steps and expressed its satisfaction," Narasimha Murthy explained.
He refuted allegations of quality lapses, unauthorized changes, and incomplete works by citing technical evaluations from multiple reputable bodies:
- IIT Tirupati
- Panel of Experts (PoE)
- Central Water Commission (CWC)
- Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS)
Diaphragm Wall Construction Details
Regarding the diaphragm wall, Narasimha Murthy noted that construction was handled by Bauer, a globally renowned firm specializing in such engineering works. Initial concrete bleeding issues were identified and resolved through studies conducted by IIT Tirupati, followed by remedial measures coordinated with the Polavaram Project Authority (PPA).
"The PoE reviewed and approved these corrective steps and recommended core sample tests from the affected panels," he said. "The results, submitted during the PoE's recent visit, confirmed adherence to standards, with the panel expressing satisfaction."
Clarification on Wall Height Adjustment
Addressing allegations about an unauthorized reduction in diaphragm wall height, the ENC clarified that design agency AFRY had proposed a three-metre embedment into the core, which received approval from the PoE. Accordingly, the wall's top level was adjusted to EL +18.50 metres.
"Core samples taken at every 50 metres during trimming were found satisfactory and have been preserved on site," Narasimha Murthy stated. "The change was in line with approved design specifications and was not intended to conceal any defects, as alleged."
Spillway and Channel Works Progress
Model studies conducted by the CWPRS recommended a 500-metre rockfill bund on the left side of the spillway, which was completed by April 2023 following CWC-approved designs for the guide bund. A slippage occurred on June 3, 2023, during approach channel excavation, prompting immediate stabilization measures that received CWC approval.
"No further issues have been reported since 2023," the ENC confirmed.
He added that a 2.3-kilometer channel at EL +17.0 meter bed level is planned to ensure safe flood passage, with approximately 75% of this work already completed. The original 23-meter core construction was revised to 24 meters for Gap I, considering deep soil mixing in the earth-cum-rock fill dam.
Narasimha Murthy's detailed rebuttal comes amid ongoing scrutiny of the multi-purpose Polavaram project, which aims to provide irrigation and drinking water across Andhra Pradesh while generating hydroelectric power.
