Tungabhadra Dam Gate Replacement Faces Potential Delays Over Funding Dispute
In a development that could impact irrigation schedules for thousands of farmers, dam gate expert Kannaiah Naidu has issued a stark warning about potential delays in the crucial crest gates replacement project at Tungabhadra Dam. The expert has cautioned that the installation of new crest gates may face significant postponement or even suspension due to what he describes as the Karnataka government's failure to release its allocated share of funds for this vital infrastructure project.
Funding Withdrawal Threatens Project Timeline
Speaking to media representatives at the dam site on Thursday evening, Naidu revealed that work is currently progressing to replace all 33 crest gates of the historic Tungabhadra Dam. However, he emphasized that any disruption in the funding flow could seriously compromise both the construction pace and the targeted completion deadline of June this year.
"I conducted a thorough inspection of the ongoing work just two days ago," Naidu stated, "and was informed by contractors that the Karnataka government, which had initially sanctioned Rs 10 crore as the first installment, has subsequently withdrawn this crucial funding amount."
Contractors Cite Financial Constraints
According to Naidu's account, the contractors involved in this ambitious project have indicated that funds are not being released due to what they term as "book adjustments" within the state's financial system. This financial uncertainty has created substantial operational challenges at the construction site.
The dam expert explained how the funding issue became apparent during his assessment: "At the current installation rate of four gates per month, completing all 33 gates by June appears virtually impossible. When I suggested increasing the installation teams from two to four to accelerate progress, contractors immediately cited severe financial constraints as the primary obstacle."
Andhra Pradesh Has Already Contributed
Naidu, who is conducting inspections following instructions from the Andhra Pradesh government, pointed out a significant disparity in financial commitment between the two beneficiary states. Andhra Pradesh, as the major beneficiary of the Tungabhadra Dam project, has already transferred its substantial share of Rs 35 crore to the Karnataka treasury, demonstrating its commitment to the project's timely completion.
The expert expressed considerable concern over what he characterized as a "lack of cooperation from the Karnataka government" and noted that contractors have raised serious alarms about the funding shortage's potential impact on their operations and workforce.
Official Response and Political Reactions
Responding to these funding concerns, Laxman Nayak, Chief Engineer of the Central Irrigation Zone, stated that he was not aware of the withdrawal of the Rs 10 crore grant. "I will need to obtain complete details before I can provide clarification on this matter," Nayak commented, indicating that the funding situation requires further investigation.
The funding issue has already drawn political attention, with BJP state executive member Dr. Basavaraj Kyavater alleging that the withdrawal of allocated funds would inevitably delay the project and adversely affect farmers who depend on the dam for irrigation. Meanwhile, JD(S) state core committee member CV Chandrashekhar has criticized the funding decision and announced plans for further protests involving party functionaries to highlight the issue.
Urgent Appeal for Resolution
Naidu has taken proactive steps to address the emerging crisis, having raised the funding issue directly with the chief engineer of Karnataka Neeravari Nigam at Munirabad. He has urgently appealed for the immediate release of funds to prevent construction delays that could have far-reaching consequences for agricultural communities in both states.
The Tungabhadra Dam, a critical water resource infrastructure serving multiple districts across Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, requires these gate replacements to ensure operational efficiency and safety. Any significant delay in this project could potentially affect water management during the upcoming monsoon season and subsequent agricultural cycles.
