The Polavaram Project is moving forward at full speed, bringing hope to millions. In a first-of-its-kind move, the central government has agreed to provide advance funds for the project’s construction. On Monday, the Union Finance Secretary gave the green light to release the budget, with an initial grant of about 2,800 crore rupees. This money will reach the state government as an ‘advance’ payment.
Meanwhile, the Water Resources Department is gearing up to start work on the new diaphragm wall in November. A crucial meeting is planned for late October or early November at the project site. International experts, the Central Water Commission, Polavaram Authority, and project officials will come together to make important technical decisions.
Right now, officials are busy designing the new diaphragm wall and planning the construction schedule. Their goal? To finish building the diaphragm wall by July next year.
The first phase of the Polavaram Project needs 14,237 crore rupees. The central government recently approved this amount and agreed to give it in advance. This is a big change from before when the state had to borrow money from NABARD to pay for the work.
The central government is now planning to set aside money for Polavaram in its special Jal Shakti grant. Sources say the Union Finance Secretary has just given the go-ahead to release about 2,800 crore rupees.
To finish the first phase by August 31, 2024, they need 12,949 crore rupees more. The state government has asked for 5,931.71 crore rupees for this financial year (2024-25). They’ve requested a total of 7,218.68 crore rupees right away to cover pending bills and this year’s needs.
The Polavaram Project Authority (PPA) and state government officials have been discussing these details since September. The PPA has recommended slightly lower amounts than what the state government proposed for various parts of the project, including the main dam, land acquisition, and rehabilitation.
This project is a game-changer for the Andhra Pradesh, promising water security and economic growth.
-Sanyogita
