The YSR Congress party strongly condemns the central government’s decision to reduce the Polavaram Project height from 45.72 meters to 41.15 meters, slamming chief minister Chandrababu Naidu for failing to oppose this damaging move despite his influential position within the NDA, putting Andhra Pradesh’s water needs and development at risk.
Taking the social media platform ‘X’, the former Chief Minister said the reduction of height slashes water storage from 194.6 TMC to 115 TMC, impacting water availability for Godavari delta agriculture, power generation, and urban needs in Visakhapatnam. He highlighted that Naidu’s history with the Polavaram. He said a recent international expert committee flagged deficiencies in the project’s previous phase, supporting claims that Naidu’s oversight compromised critical infrastructure.
He wrote that Under YSRCP governance, significant progress has been made despite yearly floods and COVID-related challenges. Essential structures, including the spillway, spill channel, and coffer dams, have been completed without disruptions, underscoring YSRCP’s dedication to the project.
The central government has sanctioned Rs 12,127 crore for continued construction, attributed to YSRCP’s consistent efforts. However, concerns remain over Naidu’s alleged attempts to block these funds in alliance with the NDA before the elections.
Jagan demanded immediate action from Naidu and his allies restore the project’s original height of 45.72 meters and ensure proper compensation for affected residents. Failure to act responsibly, he warned, could provoke a public backlash, as Andhra Pradesh’s residents expect a fully functional Polavaram Project to meet their essential needs.
