Uttam Kumar Reddy orders strict flood monitoring and irrigation readiness

Hyderabad: Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy on Tuesday directed officials to maintain strict surveillance over rising reservoir inflows, prevent flood-related damage, and ensure irrigation supply to farmers during the Vanakalam season.

Chairing a video conference with top engineers across Telangana, the Minister said flood management and irrigation coordination were the government’s top priorities. He reviewed the status of major reservoirs, noting significant inflows into the Krishna and Godavari basins.

Flood and irrigation monitoring intensified across Krishna, Godavari basins

Jurala received 2.18 lakh cusecs of inflow, while Nagarjuna Sagar reported 3.95 lakh cusecs of outflow. The Srisailam reservoir held 198.81 TMC of water, up from 192.97 TMC on the same date last year. At Nagarjuna Sagar, storage stood at 297.15 TMC out of its 312.05 TMC capacity.

In the Godavari basin, Sri Ram Sagar Project was at 73.37 TMC against 90.30 TMC capacity, while Singur held 19.48 TMC — higher than last year’s 14.91 TMC.

Out of 34,740 minor irrigation tanks across Telangana, 12,023 were full and over 9,100 were at 75–100% capacity, reflecting strong water availability but also posing discharge challenges.

The Minister cited 177 reported cases of flood-related breaches and damages across tanks, canals, and lifts, with estimated restoration costs exceeding ₹335 crore. Over 3,500 temporary restorations had been completed. Districts like Adilabad, Mulugu, Mahabubnagar, and Suryapet reported higher levels of damage. Uttam directed urgent permanent restoration works and warned of strict action for lapses.

For the ongoing crop season, 388 TMC of water was required for SCIWAM-proposed irrigation coverage. He instructed that water be released as per crop calendars, ensuring no ayacut is missed. Emphasis was laid on optimal use of water from Kadam, Yellampalli, and SRSP.

He also directed that all minor tanks be filled to ensure year-round supply. Uttam announced visits to Yellampally, SRSP, and Mid Manair projects to assess ground conditions.

Reaffirming commitment to both flood-hit regions and agricultural needs, Uttam said, “Farmers’ welfare is our top priority. At the same time, we will ensure that people in flood-hit regions are protected and provided immediate relief.”

The meeting was attended by senior irrigation officials including Principal Secretary Rahul Bojja, Special Secretary Prashant Jeevan Patil, and Engineer-in-Chief Amjad Hussain.