Polavaram Project: Latest Updates and Details...
With recent developments and continued government support, the project is on track for completion by 2027. Successfully finishing this project will benefit Andhra Pradesh and contribute to the region's overall dThe Polavaram Project exemplifies India's commitment to enhancing its irrigation infrastructure and providing sustainable water management solutions.evelopment.
The Polavaram Irrigation Project, one of India's most ambitious infrastructure endeavors, continues to advance in 2025. Situated on the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh, this project aims to irrigate over 7.2 lakh acres of land, generate hydroelectric power, and supply drinking water to numerous towns and villages.
Project Overview
The Polavaram Project involves constructing a dam with a height of 45.72 meters, making it one of the tallest earthen dams globally. The project also includes the construction of a diaphragm wall, canals, and other related structures. It is divided into two phases: Phase I involves raising the dam height to 41.15 meters, and Phase II will extend the height to 45.72 meters.
Recent Developments
1. New Diaphragm Wall Construction: Construction of a new diaphragm wall commenced in January 2025. The previous wall was damaged by floods in 2019 and 2020, leading to the need for a new wall at an estimated cost of ₹990 crore. The new wall, to be constructed parallel to the old one, is expected to be completed by December 2025.
2. Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R): The Andhra Pradesh government is actively working on the rehabilitation and resettlement of displaced families. The first phase of rehabilitation has been completed, with ₹1,000 crore credited to the accounts of displaced individuals. The second phase aims to provide basic amenities in the R&R colonies by July 2026.
3. Land Acquisition: The land acquisition process is set to be completed by 2025. The government has established broad milestones for various works, including completing Phase I by October 2026. The Chief Minister has directed officials to finalize the project by October 2026, aiming to start water impoundment by 2026.
4. Funding and Support: The Central government has sanctioned ₹12,127 crore for Phase I of the project, raising fresh hopes for its timely completion. The Chief Minister has also expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister for sanctioning funds for the revival of the Visakha steel plant, expected to boost the state's economy.
5. Construction Progress: The construction of the new diaphragm wall is progressing rapidly. The wall will be built in sections called panels, with approximately 371 panels required to complete the structure. Each panel is expected to take three days to construct, with the entire wall projected to be completed by December 2025.
Challenges and Solutions
Despite the progress, the project faces several challenges, including the need for robust flood resilience and enhanced water retention capacity. The introduction of plastic concrete in the new diaphragm wall construction underscores the focus on durability and long-term effectiveness. The Central Water Commission has approved the new design, ensuring it meets the required standards.
With recent developments and continued government support, the project is on track for completion by 2027. Successfully finishing this project will benefit Andhra Pradesh and contribute to the region's overall dThe Polavaram Project exemplifies India's commitment to enhancing its irrigation infrastructure and providing sustainable water management solutions.evelopment.
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