Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced on Friday that water from the Handri-Neeva Srujala Sravanthi (HNSS) project in Rayalaseema will be released by July 10. The state government is investing ₹3,873 crore to construct a 554 km canal and complete related projects in both phases one and two. Naidu visited the HNSS works in Chayapuram, Uravakonda, Anantapur district, where he expressed regret that the construction had stalled due to neglect by the previous administration. He emphasized that under the current TDP-led NDA government, progress has significantly accelerated.
The Chief Minister believes that once the Polavaram-Banakacherla project is finished, the entire Rayalaseema region will be liberated from drought, ensuring that every acre in the state receives irrigation water. Reflecting on the project’s history, Naidu recalled laying the foundation stone for Handri-Neeva on March 11, 1996, fulfilling the vision of TDP founder N.T. Rama Rao (NTR). At that time, Rayalaseema faced dire water shortages, and NTR was instrumental in inspiring hope among the residents.
Naidu acknowledged NTR’s foresight in harnessing surplus water for the state, which led to transformative initiatives like Handri-Neeva, Galeru, Nagari, and Telugu Ganga. He is determined to dramatically alter the district’s landscape. In response to local leaders raising concerns about crop losses, Naidu has ensured compensation for affected farmers. He underscored his commitment to transforming Rayalaseema, previously known as a “land of stones,” into a “land of pearls.”
Highlighting the importance of water access, the Chief Minister stated he issued a government order within an hour of promising to expand Handri-Neeva. He proudly noted that 37% of the project has already been completed. He further mentioned the successful attraction of the Kia company to the region as a significant achievement. Between 2014 and 2019, Naidu reported that ₹70,000 crore was allocated to irrigation projects, with ₹12,441 crore earmarked specifically for Rayalaseema, including ₹4,200 crore for Handri-Neeva.
Naidu confirmed that arrangements are underway to secure 40 TMC feet of water, with completion expected within the season. Once the first phase of the project concludes, a total of 198,000 acres—including 77,094 acres in Kurnool, 2,906 acres in Nandyal, and 118,000 acres in Anantapur—will benefit from irrigation facilities. Phase two aims to extend irrigation services to an additional 404,500 acres, thereby enhancing the financial well-being of farmers in the region.
India
Original Source: https://www.morungexpress.com/water-from-hnss-project-to-be-released-in-july-andhra-pradesh-cm
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Publish Date: 2025-05-09 21:19:00
