Polavaram diaphragm wall will be completed by December: Nimmala

Minister for Water Resources Nimmala Ramanaidu. File
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGEMENT

Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu stated that remarkable results are being achieved because of the “double engine” NDA government at both the Central and State levels. In a statement on Wednesday, the Minister expressed happiness over the approval of advance funds for the Polavaram project.

On behalf of the people of Andhra Pradesh, he extended his gratitude to the Central Government and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for securing these funds.

Since the coalition government took office, advance funds amounting to ₹5,052 crore have been sanctioned for the Polavaram project. These funds, received on time, have allowed the stalled works of Polavaram to pick up pace, thanks to the Central Government’s generous cooperation, he said.

The Minister explained that the Polavaram project is progressing swiftly, coordinated with construction companies like Megha Engineering, Bauer, and Afri, based on a predetermined schedule. Additionally, with the full support and cooperation of international experts, the Polavaram Project Authority, officials, and representatives of the Central Water Power Committee, efforts are being made to complete the works within the scheduled time, he said, adding that advance funds were granted only after reviewing the progress of the project works. 

Mr. Ramanaidu recalled that during 2014-2019, 72% of Polavaram’s work was completed, but Jagan’s government halted the progress and caused damage to the diaphragm wall.

Regarding the diaphragm wall, two cutters are currently being used, he said, adding that 6,700 square meters of the wall spanning 136 metres in length has been completed.

The Minister said that by the first week of April, a third cutter would also be operational. To strengthen the upper cofferdam, buttress dam works have already begun and are moving swiftly. Additionally, vibro-compaction works for the construction of the diaphragm wall in the clay reach area have commenced.

The diaphragm wall will be completed by December this year, and alongside, the ECRF dam and other related works will be carried out, ensuring the entire project is completed by December 2027, he added.