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Key Points

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has approached the Centre with an ambitious water linking project targeting drought-prone regions. The Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project proposes to divert surplus Godavari River water through a sophisticated three-phase system using lift irrigation and tunnels. Naidu met with key Union Ministers, including Nirmala Sitharaman and C.R. Paatil, to gain support for this transformative infrastructure initiative. The project not only addresses water scarcity but also aligns with national missions like Jal Jeevan and Blue Revolution.

Key Points: Naidu Seeks Centre's Nod for Godavari River Water Link Project

  • Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project aims to divert Godavari River surplus water
  • Three-phase water transfer system targeting drought-affected areas
  • Supports national missions like Jal Jeevan and Blue Revolution
2 min read

Andhra Pradesh CM seeks Centre's nod for Polavaram-Banakacherla Link Project

Andhra Pradesh CM proposes innovative water diversion project to transform drought-hit regions and support national water missions

"With a strategic location, industrial strength, and future-ready infrastructure, Andhra Pradesh is fully committed to advancing India's space sector. - N. Chandrababu Naidu"

New Delhi/Amaravati, May 23

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu met Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in New Delhi on Friday and submitted a proposal seeking the Centre's support for the Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project.

The project aims to divert surplus water from the Godavari River to water-scarce areas in south-central Andhra Pradesh. It will use lift irrigation and tunnels to connect the regions in three phases. A detailed financing plan has been proposed, building on earlier discussions with the Finance Ministry, according to the Chief Minister's Office (CMO).

The Chief Minister said the project would benefit millions in drought-hit areas and serve as a model for river-linking across India. The Detailed Project Report (DPR) is expected by June 2025.

He also shared copies of the proposal with Union Jal Shakti Minister C.R. Paatil, requesting coordination between departments to fast-track the project.

Earlier, during his meeting with Paatil, the Chief Minister submitted a proposal for the Polavaram–Banakacherla Link Project.

The project aims to divert surplus Godavari floodwater to drought-affected areas through a three-part water transfer system. It includes the Bollapalle reservoir, lift irrigation systems, and tunnels through the Nallamala hills.

The Chief Minister said the project supports national missions like Jal Jeevan, Blue Revolution, and Make in India. He also highlighted Andhra Pradesh’s rightful access to surplus water as a downstream state after bifurcation.

Naidu also called on Minister of State for Science and Technology and Earth Sciences, Dr Jitendra Singh, and submitted a comprehensive proposal to transform Andhra Pradesh into a pivotal hub for space manufacturing and innovation. He sought the Centre's support for the same.

The proposal outlines the development of two state-supported Space Cities - one near the ISRO SHAR spaceport and another near Lepakshi - to serve as integrated hubs for satellite production, launch vehicle development, and industry collaboration.

The Chief Minister also apprised the Union Minister of the appointment of former ISRO Chairman Dr S. Somanath as the Honorary Adviser on Space Technology to the Andhra Pradesh government. His guidance will steer the state's efforts in building a globally competitive space ecosystem.

"With a strategic location, industrial strength, and future-ready infrastructure, Andhra Pradesh is fully committed to advancing India’s space sector. We seek the Centre’s recognition and partnership in this transformative journey," he said.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Finally some concrete action on river linking! This project could be a game-changer for Andhra's drought-prone areas. Hope the Centre approves it quickly. Our farmers have suffered enough water scarcity. 🙏
P
Priya M.
The space city proposal is exciting! Andhra could become India's answer to Cape Canaveral. But I hope they don't neglect environmental concerns while pushing these mega projects. Sustainable development is key.
S
Suresh V.
As someone from Rayalaseema region, we've been waiting decades for such water projects. But past governments only made promises. Hope this time it's different. The detailed financing plan gives me some confidence.
A
Ananya R.
While the water project is needed, I'm more excited about the space manufacturing hub! With Dr. Somanath's guidance, AP can really contribute to India's space ambitions. Jai Hind! 🚀
K
Karthik N.
Good initiative but execution is everything. Remember how Polavaram dam faced delays? Hope this project doesn't get stuck in bureaucratic hurdles. Centre and state must work together.
M
Meena S.
The Nallamala hills tunnel part worries me. It's an ecologically sensitive area with tiger reserves. Hope they conduct proper environmental impact studies before starting work. Development shouldn't come at nature's cost.
V
Vikram J.
Smart move by Naidu to combine water and space proposals in one Delhi visit. AP needs both - basic infrastructure for farmers and high-tech opportunities for youth. Balanced development approach 👍

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