‘Naidu Mistakes Delaying Polavaram’

AP new irrigation minister Ambati Rambabu paid a visit to Polavaram dam construction site for the first time. He was accompanied by the irrigation officials and contractors of the dam construction. Inspecting the construction works, Ambati learned about the progress of the dam.

After the inspection, Ambati spoke to the media and blamed the previous TDP government and ex-CM Chandrababu Naidu for the delay in Polavaram completion. “The main reason behind the delay of Polavaram is, the damage to the diaphragm wall. This is purely the negligence of then TDP Chief Minister Chandrababu and Minister Devineni, who wanted to leave key works in the project and complete the work expeditiously and pass their bills,” said Ambati.

The irrigation minister further added that Rs 400 crore damage was incurred and authorities said they are considering three options for diaphragm wall restoration. He said the decision should be taken jointly by the CWC, PPA and DDRP.

But unlike the previous irrigation minister, Ambati did not set any deadline for Polavaram’s completion yet he spoke on the budget estimates. “The cost of the project has already risen to Rs 47,000 crore and the cost is likely to increase further as the project is delayed,” said Ambati and later he inspected the R&R works of the dam.

The blame game continues but the progress of Polavaram construction is not moving ahead as anticipated. The project is likely to take another couple of years for completion and may be the next government would oversee its construction.