Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday announced the conversion of the major Polavaram irrigation project on the Godavari river into a major tourist destination.
Reviewing the progress of irrigation projects at his office in the camp, Naidu suggested developing hotels, shopping areas and other facilities in the vicinity of the project.
During the review, he examined the designs related to beautification of the surrounding areas and called for preparation of plans for introduction of boating facilities along the stretch from Polavaram through Babi Hills to Bhadrachalam.
He proposed developing the entire project area into a tourism hub by introducing water, rock, forest and adventure sports to attract visitors.
The Prime Minister directed officials to expedite the construction process to ensure that the project is completed and inaugurated by the time of the next Godavari Pushkaralu, a once-in-12-years spiritual gathering of pilgrims at the river, on the lines of the Kumbh Mela.
According to an official statement, irrigation officials informed Naidu of significant progress in various components of the project. Works on Gap-1 and Gap-2 Earth and Rock Filling (ECRF) dam, which will begin soon, are scheduled to be completed by March next year.
The double tunnel lining work has also been completed by 77%, while the earthworks for the approach canal have been completed by 98%. The concrete works of the main regulator are 71% complete. “The excavation of irrigation tunnels is progressing at a rapid pace as 76% of the lining work has been completed, while the excavation and embankment works in KL have also been completed by 89%,” the officials said.
The authorities expressed confidence that all construction work will be completed by June next year.
Regarding the rehabilitation and resettlement of evacuees from the project, officials informed the Prime Minister that out of the 95 planned R&R colonies, 26 have been completed so far. As many as 49 colonies will be ready by September this year, and the remaining 20 colonies will be completed by April 2027.
In the first phase, out of 38,060 displaced families, 16,763 families have already been relocated. The Prime Minister directed that 8,518 families be transferred by August this year and the remaining 12,779 families be transferred by March 2027.
“yet, $Rs 27,089 crore has been spent on the project, plus an additional amount $Rs 5,108 crore is required to complete civil and rehabilitation works, the statement added.
