The Telangana government will initiate a dialogue with the Maharashtra government to resolve outstanding issues and proceed with the construction of a barrage at Tummidihatti as part of the Pranahita-Chevella project. Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy has directed irrigation officials to begin preparations for talks with Maharashtra, seeking permission to construct the barrage at a height of 150 metres.
Technical Recommendations for Barrage Height
During a high-level meeting at the MCRHRD Institute, officials and irrigation experts suggested that constructing the Tummidihatti barrage at a height of 150 metres would enable the utilization of at least 100 tmcft of water and fulfill Telangana's interests. Authorities confirmed that Maharashtra has already agreed to the construction of the barrage at a height of 148 metres. Engineering experts noted that building the barrage at 152 metres would result in more submergence in Maharashtra territory, making the 150-metre height optimal for drawing water at a lower cost.
Project Progress and Cost
In a PowerPoint presentation, officials highlighted key aspects such as the optimal height for the barrage and the volume of water that could be utilized based on different construction heights. The irrigation department informed the CM that the government has spent approximately Rs 11,000 crore on the Pranahita-Chevella project, and canal construction has been completed in several areas. Additionally, 71.5 km of canal work has already been executed.
CM Revanth Reddy emphasized that constructing the barrage at 150 metres would not significantly affect submergence in Maharashtra and assured that the government is ready to provide compensation to displaced persons. The barrage would ensure water availability for both irrigation and drinking needs in Telangana's upland regions, including Adilabad. The CM stressed that the barrage should facilitate water flows to the Sripada Yellampalli Reservoir via gravity flow at minimal cost.
Political Coordination
Given the BJP-led government in Maharashtra, CM Revanth Reddy instructed Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy to immediately write a letter to Union Minister Kishan Reddy, requesting him to persuade the Maharashtra government and safeguard Telangana's interests.
Restoration of Medigadda Barrage
Reviewing the progress of the Medigadda barrage restoration, the Chief Minister ordered officials to expedite geo-testing operations and complete the works before the monsoon season begins. Earlier, Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy stated that four alternative alignment proposals for linking Tummidihatti with Yellampalli are under examination. RV Associates and IIT Hyderabad, commissioned to study the options, have submitted joint recommendations, which are being scrutinized for feasibility, cost, and efficiency.
"The Congress government is fully committed to the construction of the Pranahita-Chevella project in line with promises made in its election manifesto. Each proposal is being examined in detail for its cost, advantages, and disadvantages. A final decision will be taken after a review meeting with the CM in the evening," Uttam said.
He also directed officials to expedite the restoration of Medigadda, Sundilla, and Annaram barrages. "All necessary tests must be completed before the onset of the monsoon. Standard Penetration Tests (SPT) must be conducted every 1.5 metres. Permeability tests must be carried out every 3 metres. Even if bore drilling hits rock, holes must be drilled at least 5 metres deep. The coordination committee appointed for barrage restoration works should visit the sites immediately and fix a clear timeline," he added.
