Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu expressed deep concerns over the Polavaram project’s current state, emphasizing its significance to the region. Visiting the project for the first time since assuming office, Chandrababu conducted a thorough review with officials, inspecting the progress of the spillway, coffer dam, and diaphragm wall works. He later addressed the media, highlighting the project’s challenges and criticizing the current administration’s handling.
Highlights of Chandrababu’s Visit and Remarks
Achievements During TDP Tenure:
- Chandrababu pointed out that 72% of the Polavaram project was completed during the TDP’s rule.
- He mentioned efforts to merge seven mandals of Telangana into Andhra Pradesh to ensure the project’s smooth progress.
- Emphasized that the project was included in the Partition Act as a national project, with a capacity to discharge 15 lakh cusecs through the spillway.
Criticism of Jagan’s Administration:
- Chandrababu accused the current Chief Minister, Jagan, of derailing the project through mismanagement and poor decisions.
- He criticized the reverse tendering process and the replacement of key agency staff.
- Highlighted the neglect of the diaphragm wall and subsequent “unforgivable mistakes” by Jagan’s administration.
Projected Delays and Costs:
- Chandrababu revealed that despite reviews and repairs costing Rs. 446 crores, significant issues persist.
- He estimated that constructing the diaphragm wall in parallel would cost Rs. 990 crores.
- Stated that the project, had it continued as planned, would have been completed by the end of 2020.
- Officials now predict it will take four more years to complete if all goes well, requiring four full seasons.
