Describe the salient features of Polavaram irrigation project and explain its benefits.

Question

Ghissu Editorial · Accepted Answer

Polavaram is a multipurpose national project on the Godavari with a dam, Left and Right Main Canals and a planned 960 MW hydropower station, serving irrigation, drinking water, flood control and power. It will irrigate about 2.91 lakh hectares and supply drinking water to 28.5 lakh people in 540 villages.

**Introduction**

The Polavaram irrigation project⟦1⟧ harnesses the Godavari River for irrigation, drinking water, and power in Andhra Pradesh⟦3⟧⟦2⟧, recognized as a national project under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act. It addresses water scarcity in drought-prone regions like Rayalaseema and supports the state’s agrarian economy.

**Key Features**

2. **Canal Network and Land Acquisition**: Two main canals target irrigation of 2.91 lakh hectares; land acquisition stands at 67.43%, with only 11% of Project Displaced Families rehabilitated, reflecting major social challenges. The Left Main Canal and Right Main Canal are critical for water distribution but face delays in completion.

**Benefits**

4. **Irrigation and Drinking Water Supply**: The project will transform drought-prone ==Andhra Pradesh== areas, especially Seemandhra, enabling multiple cropping and increasing farmer incomes. It will provide drinking water to 28.5 lakh people across 540 villages, improving rural health and livelihoods.

5. **Flood Control and Renewable Energy**: It mitigates Godavari floods, protecting lives and property downstream. The hydroelectric power station contributes to clean energy generation, aligning with Andhra Pradesh’s renewable energy goals and reducing carbon emissions.

**Way Forward**

6. **Accelerate Land Acquisition and Rehabilitation**: Full implementation of the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (RFCTLARR) Act is essential to ensure timely, fair resettlement of displaced families.

7. **Strengthen Oversight and Funding**: Bodies like the Technical Advisory Committee and Revised Cost Committee should enhance monitoring and ensure budget continuity to avoid project delays. Prioritizing hydroelectric component completion and engaging local communities will foster sustainable development.

**Conclusion**

Polavaram is crucial for water security, agricultural productivity, flood control, and renewable energy in ==Andhra Pradesh==, aligning with Sustainable Development Goal 6 for inclusive growth and regional development.

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