Water Resources Department (WRD) Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu expressed strong displeasure over delays in the execution of works related to the Veligonda Project and the Polavaram Left Main Canal. Addressing a review meeting through a video conference with departmental officials and representatives of executing agencies on Monday, the Minister directed that notices be issued to both agencies and officials responsible for failing to adhere to the prescribed timelines.

Regarding the Veligonda project, Mr. Ramanaidu instructed that benching and lining works inside the tunnels be completed as per the fixed targets. He acknowledged that a legal case was hampering the removal of the tunnel boring machine (TBM) in the second tunnel and informed that a technical expert committee has been formed to assess the machine’s value.

The Minister emphasised the need to immediately float tenders and commence works such as feeder canal construction, lining, and retaining wall as soon as administrative approvals are secured.

In the case of the Polavaram Left Main Canal, he issued instructions to expedite challenging components such as the highway bridge, Pampa aqueduct, and Krishnavaram siphon. Agencies were directed to ramp up execution speed and ensure that progress aligns with deadlines.

Irrigation Advisor M. Venkateswara Rao, Engineer-in-Chief Narasimha Rao, Chief Engineers and Superintending Engineers of the respective projects, senior irrigation officials, and representatives from executing agencies attended the meeting.