Uttam Kumar Reddy criticises shift from Pranahita-Chevella to Medigadda

Says Pranahita-Chevella project would have been a more viable option compared to the Medigadda barrage to utilise Godavari water

Hyderabad: Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy has reiterated that the Pranahita-Chevella project would have been a more viable option compared to the Medigadda barrage to utilise Godavari water. Addressing a press conference on Friday, he emphasised that the Central Water Commission had confirmed the availability of 160 TMC at Thummidihatti, making Pranahita-Chevella a preferable choice.

Reddy alleged that the project was shifted to Medigadda for political reasons, aiming to deny credit to the Congress. He questioned the accountability in case of issues with the barrage, particularly if 15-16 TMC were stored at Medigadda, as suggested by BRS leaders. He warned that 44 villages along the Godavari banks, Bhadrachalam town and the Sammakka-Sarakka barrage could face risk if the barrage was impounded to its gross storage capacity.

The Minister said that action would be initiated against those responsible for structural issues with the KLIS barrages based on the findings of the Judicial Commission, NDSA investigation, and Vigilance Commission. He added that if BRS leaders claim structural issues were caused by an explosion, they should present their case before the commission.