KCR Grilled by Kaleshwaram Commission on Dam Decisions and Project Approvals
Hyderabad: Former Telangana Chief Minister and BJP leader K. Chandrashekar Rao (KCR) appeared before the PC Ghose Commission on Tuesday for questioning in connection with the multi-crore Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. The inquiry, held at BRK Bhavan, lasted approximately 50 minutes, during which KCR was examined as the 115th witness. Emerging from the venue after the session, KCR greeted a large crowd of supporters and party workers before departing in a convoy, accompanied by senior BRS leader Harish Rao.
Key Questions on Dam Construction and Approvals
The Commission, probing alleged irregularities in the project, posed 18 key questions to the former Chief Minister. A primary focus of the interrogation was the decision-making process behind the construction of major dams under the project.
According to sources, KCR stated that:
- The dam constructions were undertaken with Cabinet approval and government authorization.
- The design and engineering of the project were executed based on the recommendations of WAPCOS, a central government consultancy agency.
- All required statutory permissions were obtained prior to the commencement of works.
KCR also submitted a comprehensive book documenting the project details, including government orders and planning documents.
Corporation Formation and Technical Oversight
When asked about the formation of the Kaleshwaram Corporation, KCR explained that it was created to ensure the efficient mobilization of funds and to facilitate swift execution of the project in the newly formed Telangana state.
On water storage and barrage locations, KCR clarified that:
- Qualified engineers were responsible for determining water storage levels.
- Decisions regarding site selection or changes of barrages were made based on technical evaluations.
- The overall plan was formulated considering hydrological feasibility and water availability.
Additionally, KCR handed over GO No. 45 and the Operations & Maintenance Manual of the project to the Commission for their review.
