Polavaram Project and Beyond: CM Chandrababu Naidu Sets 2027 Deadline Amid Ambitious Plans for Andhra Pradesh
In a passionate address to the Andhra Pradesh Assembly, CM Chandrababu Naidu reaffirmed his commitment to completing the Polavaram project, a lifeline for the state, by 2027. Emphasizing his government’s innovative approach, he declared, “We don’t have money, but we have ideas. We don’t have magic wands, but we have intelligence. Let’s use them to create miracles.” His address was aimed at inspiring MLAs and instilling confidence in achieving ambitious developmental goals.
Polavaram: A Lifeline in the Making
The Polavaram project, one of India’s largest multipurpose irrigation projects, has been a focal point of CM Chandrababu’s governance. Despite challenges, including financial constraints and delays, Naidu promised its completion by 2027. He criticized the previous government’s handling of the diaphragm wall construction, contrasting it with his administration’s commitment, which saw the project being reviewed 80 times and visited 28 times by him personally.
Chandrababu highlighted that under the TDP government, Polavaram could have been completed by 2021. However, delays post-2019 hindered progress. He announced that construction on the new diaphragm wall will commence in January 2024, ensuring that the project’s timeline remains on track.
A Vision for River Linking and Infrastructure Development
Beyond Polavaram, CM Chandrababu shared his life’s ambition of linking rivers to ensure water security for the state. This ambitious initiative, estimated to cost ₹70,000 crore, reflects his long-term vision for Andhra Pradesh’s development.
On infrastructure, he introduced an innovative road construction model involving private companies, to be piloted in the two Godavari districts. This approach aims to accelerate development while maintaining quality.
Addressing Inter-State and Political Issues
The assembly session also touched on critical issues, including inter-state employee transfers and pending disputes with Telangana. Finance Minister Payyavula Keshav highlighted efforts to resolve employee relocation concerns, with over 3,000 employees seeking transfers between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Discussions also revolved around grants, the Land Grabbing Act, and amendments to the Cooperative Societies, Excise, and Prohibition Acts.
The Skill Development Case and Political Tensions
The contentious issue of Chandrababu Naidu’s arrest in the skill development case was raised during the session. MLA Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy accused the previous government of orchestrating a conspiracy, citing retired officer PV Ramesh’s claims of destroyed files. Demanding an inquiry, MLAs expressed concerns about the political motives behind the arrest.
Clarity Amid Challenges
CM Chandrababu Naidu’s detailed explanation of his government’s efforts to complete the Polavaram project and address pressing state issues was the highlight of the session. Despite financial hurdles, his focus on innovation and long-term vision sets a positive tone for Andhra Pradesh’s future.
As Andhra Pradesh navigates complex challenges, CM Chandrababu’s leadership and commitment to transformative projects like Polavaram and river linking hold promise for sustainable growth and development.
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