012. National | Project

Polavaram Project Advances with ₹990 Crore Diaphragm Wall Approval: A Boost for Irrigation and Energy

Introduction

The Polavaram Project, a flagship multi-purpose irrigation initiative in Andhra Pradesh, has reached a new milestone. The state government recently approved ₹990 crore for constructing a new diaphragm wall for the Earth-cum-Rock Fill dam, significantly expanding the project’s scope and capacity. This move strengthens its dual goals of irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, with added benefits for drinking water supply and tourism.


About the Polavaram Project

  • Located on the Godavari River, spanning the Eluru and East Godavari districts
  • Designed to serve multiple purposes:
    • Irrigation
    • Hydroelectric power
    • Drinking and industrial water supply
  • Recognized as a National Project by the Central Government of India

New Financial Allocation and Construction Details

  • A total of ₹990 crore has been allocated for the diaphragm wall
  • Total work area: 63,656 square metres
  • Construction to be completed in two phases:
    • Part A: ₹675.98 crore
    • Part B: ₹314.02 crore

This diaphragm wall is crucial to ensuring the dam’s structural integrity and enhancing its water retention capabilities.


Approval Conditions and Technical Oversight

The project’s approval includes five key conditions:

  1. Strict adherence to original tender prices
  2. Verification of all technical data before sanction
  3. Designs must be approved by a Competent Authority
  4. Prevention of execution deviations
  5. Full compliance with the project’s technical standards and specifications

These measures aim to ensure transparency, efficiency, and accountability in project execution.


Irrigation Potential and Water Management Impact

The Polavaram Project is set to create:

  • A gross irrigation potential of 4,36,825 hectares
  • Annual support for 10.80 lakh acres of agricultural land
  • Diversion of water to the Krishna River Basin, promoting inter-basin water sharing

This is expected to improve agricultural output and provide climate resilience for drought-prone regions.


Hydropower Generation and Drinking Water Supply

  • Designed to generate 960 MW of hydroelectric power
  • Will provide drinking water to 28.5 lakh people in 611 villages
  • Includes provision of water for industrial development, fostering local economic growth

Environmental Considerations: Papikonda National Park

The project’s reservoir will affect areas within the Papikonda National Park, a biodiversity hotspot in the East and West Godavari districts:

  • Home to the endangered “Kanchu Mekha”, a dwarf goat species
  • Habitat for several threatened flora and fauna
  • Raises the need for sensitive environmental management and wildlife protection

🐾 The balance between development and conservation will be a critical aspect of the project’s future.


Tourism and Regional Development

The project is also expected to:

  • Boost tourism in the scenic Godavari region
  • Improve access to natural attractions like Papikonda National Park
  • Support local livelihoods through eco-tourism and small business opportunities

Conclusion

The recent ₹990 crore approval for the Polavaram diaphragm wall signals renewed momentum for one of India’s most ambitious river-linking and irrigation projects. While it promises immense benefits for agriculture, energy, and drinking water, it also brings forth challenges in environmental conservation. With careful planning and inclusive governance, Polavaram has the potential to become a model for sustainable infrastructure development in India.

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