Markapuram: Water resources minister Nimmala Ramanaidu stayed overnight inside the Veligonda tunnel to review ongoing works and assess progress at close quarters. He directed officials to expedite work related to extricating the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) that got stuck in the tunnel.
The minister emphasized that removal of the TBM is crucial to enable water flow into the project. He expressed serious displeasure at officials for not monitoring the work properly. Officials and contract agency executives were on their toes during the night-long inspection by the minister in the tunnel. Ramanaidu's visit highlights the government's renewed focus on expediting the key irrigation project while addressing long-pending issues.
Spending nearly 18 hours underground, the minister inspected lining and benching works being carried out inside the tunnel. He traveled nearly 19 kilometers to examine different stretches where construction is progressing with the support of five gantries. During the inspection, he interacted with workers and inquired about their working conditions, safety measures, and welfare facilities, while also reviewing execution timelines with officials.
Focus on Tunnel-2 and Stuck TBM
A major focus of the visit was tunnel-2, where the minister reached the 12-kilometer point to inspect the Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) that has remained stuck for a long period. He took a ladder to trek the toughest stretch in the tunnel and personally inspected the TBM point. "We got clearance from the High Court to remove the TBM. It was unfortunate that the TBM, which was imported to dig through the tunnel, itself got stuck, leaving the entire project work in chaos," said the minister. He observed that unless the TBM is cleared, water flow through the tunnel would not be possible, thereby delaying the project's core objective.
He further alleged that despite nearly Rs. 3,000 crore worth of pending works, the previous government went ahead and dedicated the Veligonda project, which he said created a false impression among farmers in Prakasam district.
Solidarity and Safety Measures
In a gesture reflecting solidarity with the workforce, the minister shared a meal with officials and workers inside tunnel-2, appreciating their efforts in challenging conditions. Highlighting safety concerns, Ramanaidu noted that certain sections of the tunnel have loose rocks and soft rock formations, posing potential risks. He instructed officials and executing agencies to adopt strict safety measures and proceed cautiously in vulnerable stretches.
The overnight stay and detailed inspection signal the government's commitment to fast-tracking the Veligonda project while ensuring safety, quality, and timely completion.
