CM Naidu Urges Union Minister to Fast-Track Funds for Polavaram Project Completion

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu met with Union Minister for Jal Shakti, Chandrakant Raghunath Patil, to discuss the status and challenges of the Polavaram project. During the hour-long meeting, held after the Niti Aayog session, Naidu presented a proposal requesting the release of Rs 12,500 crore to complete phase-I of the project. He emphasized the urgency of funding, particularly for the new diaphragm wall construction, estimated to cost over Rs 900 crore, and urged for cabinet approval by November to restart the work.

Naidu later briefed the media about the productive discussion, expressing optimism about receiving the Centre's support for the reconstruction efforts. Addressing concerns from opposition parties, he clarified that the Rs 15,000 crore allocation for Amaravati and other commitments were not new announcements but part of the AP State Reorganisation Act 2014. He criticized the previous government for failing to secure these funds and utilize central schemes, attributing the current financial disparity between Telangana and Andhra Pradesh to their mismanagement.

Naidu highlighted the need for central assistance to overcome the significant setbacks experienced over the past five years, beyond the initial bifurcation impact. He stressed the urgency of corrective measures to revive neglected projects and attract new investments to the state.