Chandrababu Naidu Vows to Make Andhra Pradesh Drought-Proof with Godavari Water Diversion

In a review meeting on irrigation projects held at his residence in Undavalli, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu reiterated his commitment to diverting surplus Godavari River water to Banakacherla as a long-term solution to drought-proof Andhra Pradesh. Highlighting his vision of providing irrigation water to every acre of farmland in the State, he emphasized that this transformative initiative could eliminate droughts entirely.

The Chief Minister stressed the significance of the Polavaram project in benefiting eight districts, including the three North Coastal districts, Godavari districts, Krishna, Guntur, Prakasam, and Rayalaseema. He noted that approximately 2,000–3,000 TMC of surplus Godavari water flows into the sea annually, representing a missed opportunity to address water scarcity.

Naidu detailed plans for the Banakacherla project, which aims to divert Godavari water to the Krishna River and then to the Bollapalli reservoir through the Nagarjuna Sagar Right Bank Canal, culminating in its delivery to Banakacherla via a 31-km-long tunnel. The project envisions utilizing 280 TMC of Godavari flood water during the rainy season to address water shortages in drought-prone regions like Prakasam, Nellore, and Rayalaseema.

Acknowledging the project's challenges, Naidu outlined the estimated cost of Rs 70,000–Rs 80,000 crore, along with the need for 54,000 acres of land acquisition and 4,000 megawatts of power. Despite these hurdles, he expressed optimism about securing Central assistance. During a recent visit to New Delhi, Naidu discussed the project’s critical importance with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and sought financial support.

Directing officials to expedite approvals and complete the tender process swiftly, Naidu reaffirmed his government’s resolve to execute the project. Senior officials, including Special Chief Secretary (Irrigation) G. Sai Prasad and Principal Secretary (Finance) Peeyush Kumar, participated in the meeting.

Naidu described the Banakacherla project as a game-changer for Andhra Pradesh, promising enhanced water security, increased agricultural productivity, and a significant boost to the State's economy. He underlined that despite financial and logistical constraints, the government is steadfast in its determination to complete the project, which he believes will permanently transform Andhra Pradesh’s water management landscape.