Visakhapatnam, Jan 08, 2026 – Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu on Wednesday announced that Phase-I of the Polavaram major irrigation project on the Godavari River, constructed with 100% central assistance, is slated for completion by March 2027. The project aims to enhance irrigation, water supply, and inland waterway connectivity across the state.

The announcement came after an aerial survey and on-site inspection of the ongoing project works by the chief minister. He noted that the construction of a new diaphragm wall—a horizontal concrete structure across the riverbed supporting the earth-cum-rock fill (ECRF) dam—was nearing completion and is expected to be ready by February 15.

Project Targets and Timelines

Naidu outlined the phased schedule of work:

• Phase-I completion: March 2027, enabling water release
• ECRF dam gap-2 works: Completion by March 2027
• Embankment works: Completion by June 2027
• Rehabilitation & Resettlement (R&R) works: Within one year

He emphasized that the completion of Phase-I will make the largest inland waterways available and provide connectivity through the Polavaram right and left canals. Water supply will be extended to Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli districts via the left main canal, enhancing irrigation facilities.

Impact on Agriculture and Regional Development

Naidu highlighted the role of the Pattiseema lift irrigation scheme in stabilizing the Krishna delta by transferring Godavari waters to the Krishna River, benefiting the Rayalaseema region. He said the scheme has positioned Rayalaseema as a horticulture hub, and the state government is taking steps to develop it as a global horticulture hub.

Calling the Polavaram project a lifeline for Andhra Pradesh, the chief minister expressed his ambition to complete the project and further work on interlinking rivers across India. He emphasized that interlinking rivers will help the state become drought-free and ensure the development of all regions. He recalled that a task force on river interlinking was formed during the Vajpayee regime at the Centre.

Addressing Water Sharing Concerns

Responding to concerns over water-sharing disputes with Telangana, Naidu clarified that he has never opposed projects in Telangana and criticized the politicization of water issues. He stressed that using excess Godavari water through Polavaram is justified, and preserved Krishna water can be supplied to the Rayalaseema region, with surplus available for Telangana.

Investments and Government Support

Naidu pointed out that the TDP government invested ₹65,000 crore in the irrigation sector between 2014 and 2019, including ₹12,000 crore in the Rayalaseema region alone.

The chief minister was accompanied during the Polavaram visit by Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaiduand Information & Public Relations Minister K Parthasarathi, who reviewed the ongoing works and future plans for the project.