HYDERABAD: Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy emphasized the need for adequate funding and swift completion of pending irrigation projects. Their remarks came during a pre-budget meeting of the Irrigation and Civil Supplies departments at Dr B R Ambedkar Secretariat on Monday.
The ministers instructed officials to prioritise the SLBC project and expedite the installation of the fifth pump at AMRP. They also called for a comprehensive study of the Seetharama Project in the erstwhile Khammam district and acceleration of works to ensure the Paleru Reservoir receives Godavari water. Additionally, they directed officials to review the status of Godavari basin projects from Baswapur to Singur and the Yedula-Vattem canal system in the erstwhile Mahabubnagar district.
Regarding the Dindi Lift Irrigation Scheme, the ministers urged officials to focus on completing projects in their final stages. They stressed the importance of allocating funds in the upcoming financial year for land acquisition, maintenance of older projects, and capital works. They highlighted that modernising irrigation systems and lining canals would extend project lifespans and improve water efficiency.
Ensure Timely Maintenance And Explore Central Funding Options for Various Schemes
Criticising the previous government, they alleged that excessive focus on the Kaleshwaram project led to the neglect and deterioration of older irrigation systems. They instructed officials to ensure timely maintenance and explore central funding options for various schemes. A special legal team will be formed to resolve land disputes related to irrigation projects.
Officials were also directed to expedite the repair of gates in all medium and minor projects and strengthen canal networks. The ministers claimed that high-interest loans taken by the previous government had placed a financial burden on the state. Efforts are being made to reduce interest rates from 10% to 8% to ease this strain.
Addressing the implementation of the Gruha Jyothi scheme, the ministers assured that 500 kg gas cylinders were being distributed and urged the Civil Supplies and Finance departments to coordinate effectively to prevent operational challenges.
The meeting was attended by Special Chief Secretary Ramakrishna Rao, Irrigation Advisor Aditya Das, Finance Principal Secretary Sandeep Kumar Sultania, ENC General Anil, Special Secretary Prashant Jeevan Patil, R&R Commissioner Vijay Krishna Reddy, O&M ENC Vijaya Bhaskar Reddy, and other senior officials.
