Polavaram deadline hinges on decision on diaphragm wall stability
The work on key components has been completed on a war-footing
Visakhapatnam: The deadline set for Polavaram multi-purpose project, which has been accorded national project status by the Union government post-bifurcation may miss the deadline for completion due to Godavari floods in 2020 and 2022, lack of understanding between the Centre and the Andhra Pradesh Governments over revised estimates and sustained objections being raised by riparian States over submergence of areas.
On an umpteen number of occasions, the Centre clarified that it is studying the State's claims over revised estimates. The project cost of Rs 15,000-odd has escalated due to delayed implementation. The original deadline set for completion of the project was March, 2024. As per 2022 price level, the State has been requesting the Centre to revise the estimates to Rs 55,000 crore.
The work on key components like all 48 barrage gates as per the upper dam design, earth dam gaps, earth dam-cum-rockfill dam gap-II, spill approach, spill and pilot channels has been completed on a war-footing. The deadline is likely to be extended keeping in view the damage caused to the diaphragm walls. An experts panel from the National Hydro Power Corporation (NHPC) has already made an on-the-spot assessment.
The three-member panel is likely to submit its report in two to three weeks. "Depending on the finding, the Jal Shakti Ministry will decide whether to go for a new diaphragm wall or repair the damage it suffered during the Godavari floods," AP Minister for Irrigation Ambati Rambabu said after an inspection of Polavaram works.
While blaming the erstwhile TDP Government for constructing the diaphragm wall without completing the coffer dam wall, he said if a decision is taken to construct a new diaphragm wall, it may affect the schedule of construction works.
An important meeting convened recently by the Central Water Commission (CWC) Chairman Kishvinder Vohra in Delhi was held in the presence of AP, Telangana and Odisha whereas riparian State Chattisgarh did not depute its representatives. All the riparian States have been expressing apprehensions over submergence in their area due to unauthorised constructions being made by AP Government ignoring guidelines issued by Jal Shakti Ministry, Central Water Commission and Polavaram Project Authority.
With neighbouring Telangana raising strong objections over submergence of areas due to water to be stored in the dam at full reservoir and minimum reservoir levels, the CWC has directed AP to take part in a joint survey to hammer out a solution to the contentious issue.
A senior official of Jal Shakti Ministry said the Centre is keen on early completion of the project aimed at providing massive irrigation and drinking water facility in AP and generating hydropower, by sorting out the issues facing the riparian States and come to a consensus with AP on revised estimates for the project.
