After completing the Pattiseema project, which augments water supply to the Krishna delta, the Irrigation Department is now focusing on completing pending projects in Rayalaseema.
Following its request the government released Rs.3000 crore. The funds would be utilised for completing the Handri-Neeva and Galeru-Nagari projects, which are likley to prove lifelines to drought-prone Rayalaseema. This apart, focus is being trained on completing the Veligonda, Pulivendula and relief and rehabilitation works under the Pulichintala projects, besides minor irrigation works.
Irrigation Minister Devineni Umamaheswara Rao said efforts are being made to hire the services of lashkars under the outsourcing method for speedy completion of the Handri-Neeva project. He claimed that six pumps have been installed at Handri-Neeva. In addition, all project works in Hindupur, Madanapalle and Kuppam would be taken up in Novemeber and completed by March.
Mr. Rao said Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu would inspect the various works and camp at project sites on November 9 and 10. The Finance Department conducted a review meeting with the Irrigation Department on the status of projects across the State here on Monday. Finance Minister Yenamala Ramakrishnudu said the government was giving top priority to irrigation and agriculture.
