Hyderabad: Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy pushed Pranahita revival talks and directed officials to prepare proposals for discussions with Maharashtra on the Tummidihatti barrage.
He issued the direction during a high-level review of the Pranahita–Chevella Lift Irrigation Project. He said the Pranahita revival talks would address inter-state concerns and move the project forward.
The Minister asked officials to design the project with minimal submergence in Maharashtra and the Chaprala Wildlife Sanctuary. At the same time, he assured compensation for affected regions.
Moreover, he stressed that planning must rely on detailed technical studies. Therefore, he directed teams to prepare cost-benefit analyses and examine alternative alignments.
Pranahita revival talks emphasise gravity-based design
Uttam Kumar Reddy said officials should prioritise gravity-based water flow wherever possible. This approach, he added, would reduce long-term operational costs.
The original plan proposed a barrage at Tummidihatti. It aimed to supply water to north Telangana and tail-end areas like Chevella through gravity canals.
However, he noted that the previous BRS government redesigned the project into the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. While that plan expanded ayacut, it increased reliance on power-intensive lifts.
The Minister said the current government seeks to integrate existing infrastructure with a cost-efficient model. As a result, experts are studying four alignments linking Tummidihatti to Yellampalli.
Teams from IIT Hyderabad and RV Associates are evaluating these options. They aim to reduce land acquisition, pumping needs and overall costs.
Meanwhile, geological and geotechnical surveys are underway. In addition, officials are expediting repairs to Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla barrages before the monsoon.
Authorities are carrying out the works under National Dam Safety Authority guidance. They have also set strict timelines and testing protocols for completion.
