Kaleshwaram Barrages: Telangana Gears Up for Post-Monsoon Restoration Drive

Telangana's lifeline, the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme, is set for a critical overhaul, with Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy confirming that extensive restoration work on its damaged barrages will commence immediately after the current flood season. This crucial announcement brings a ray of hope for farmers dependent on the scheme, as the government aims to ensure timely water supply for the upcoming Yasangi (Rabi) crop.

The three key barrages – Medigadda (Lakshmi), Annaram (Saraswati), and Sundilla (Parvati) – have been under intense scrutiny following alarming reports of sinking piers and structural integrity concerns.

The Medigadda barrage, in particular, suffered significant damage, with several piers experiencing noticeable subsidence, raising serious questions about its construction and long-term viability.

To meticulously assess the extent of the damage and recommend robust remedial measures, the Telangana government engaged a panel of eminent national expert committees.

The Dam Safety Authority of India (DSA), a premier body dedicated to dam safety, along with the National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), Roorkee, and GRI, have conducted thorough inspections and are in the process of submitting their comprehensive reports. These expert findings will form the bedrock of the restoration strategy, ensuring that the repairs are not just superficial but address the fundamental structural issues.

Minister Reddy emphasized that while the damage is substantial, the government's unwavering commitment is to bring the barrages back to full operational capacity.

He clarified that undertaking major repairs during the ongoing flood season is impractical and unsafe, necessitating the delay until October-November when floodwaters recede. This strategic timeline will allow engineers and construction crews to work safely and efficiently, leveraging the detailed insights provided by the expert committees.

The Kaleshwaram Project, a monumental undertaking designed to address Telangana's irrigation needs, has been a subject of intense political debate and public concern.

The current Congress government has inherited the challenge of rectifying the issues, with Minister Reddy reiterating their dedication to transparency and accountability. He assured the public that every effort would be made to restore the project's integrity, ensuring that it serves its intended purpose of providing water security to the state's agricultural backbone.

As the monsoon season draws to a close, all eyes will be on the commencement of these vital restoration works.

The successful revival of the Kaleshwaram barrages is not just an engineering feat but a testament to the state's resolve to safeguard its agricultural future and ensure prosperity for its farming communities.