Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu Seeks Central Assurance For Polavaram Project Completion

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is awaiting a definitive financial commitment from the Centre to complete the long-delayed Polavaram project, which he deems crucial for the state’s development. Following assurances from the Union Budget, Naidu is pushing for a clear announcement on the funds required to advance this ambitious irrigation project.

The Union Budget included a promise of financial support for various projects, but while Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted special financial aid for the Amaravati capital region, Polavaram, a project of equal significance, did not receive specific funding details. Naidu, who views Polavaram as essential for Andhra Pradesh’s water security and agricultural stability, is optimistic but concerned about the lack of a concrete financial plan.

Polavaram, a Rs. 55,000 crore multi-purpose project, is intended to harness Godavari River waters to mitigate droughts, control floods, and generate hydropower. The project’s development has been marred by delays and controversies. It was initially declared a national project in 2016, with the Centre agreeing to fund it as part of a special package for Andhra Pradesh. Despite this, Naidu alleges mismanagement and inefficiencies, particularly during the tenure of his predecessor Y. S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, which he claims led to significant financial losses and project delays.

The project has been plagued by setbacks, including damage from floods in 2019-20 and alleged mismanagement of funds. Naidu has publicly criticized the previous administration for these issues, citing a substantial increase in costs and delays in completing critical infrastructure components such as the diaphragm wall. He has also blamed the previous government for diverting central funds meant for Polavaram, further complicating the project’s financial situation.

Naidu’s administration has recently engaged international experts to assess the project’s status and recommend measures to address ongoing challenges. This includes addressing damage to the diaphragm wall and estimating additional costs required for repairs and completion. The project’s history reflects a series of political and administrative challenges, dating back to its inception in 1980 and spanning several decades of changing political priorities and administrative hurdles.

As Naidu seeks to revitalize the project and fulfill his promises to the people of Andhra Pradesh, he is also dealing with political complexities, including his alliance with the BJP-led central government. His previous tenure saw significant progress on Polavaram, but the subsequent administration’s handling of the project has been a point of contention.

Naidu remains hopeful that with renewed central support, the Polavaram project can overcome its historical challenges and become a cornerstone of Andhra Pradesh’s water management and agricultural development.