Andhra Pradesh aims to provide assured irrigation to over 2 lakh acres of land by 2027 through the completion of several major irrigation projects currently underway. The state government is focusing on finishing projects like the Polavaram, Vamsadhara Phase-II, Thotapalli, Tamarabarani, and Owk reservoir projects.
The Polavaram project, a multi-purpose irrigation project, is expected to irrigate 2.25 lakh acres upon completion, though its timeline has faced delays. The Vamsadhara Phase-II project will irrigate 1.60 lakh acres in Srikakulam district. The Thotapalli project aims to stabilize irrigation for 2.40 lakh acres in Vizianagaram district.
The Tamarabarani project, jointly undertaken by Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, will provide irrigation to 65,000 acres in the SPSR Nellore district. The Owk reservoir project is designed to irrigate 40,000 acres in Kurnool district.
Currently, approximately 18.82 lakh acres are receiving assured irrigation in the state. With the completion of these projects, the total area under assured irrigation will increase to around 21.02 lakh acres.
The state government has allocated significant funds to expedite the completion of these projects, recognizing their crucial role in agricultural development and economic growth. Focus is also on completing the remaining works of the Galeru-Nagari Sujala Sravanthi project to provide irrigation to 1.6 lakh acres in Chittoor and Annamayya districts.
Officials state that the completion of these projects will not only boost agricultural production but also improve the socio-economic conditions of farmers in the region, reducing dependence on rainfall and enhancing water security. The government is committed to ensuring efficient water management and equitable distribution of water resources.
