₹595 crore allocated for revival of 611 defunct lift irrigation schemes: Ramanaidu

The Andhra Pradesh government has allocated ₹595 crore for the restoration of 611 defunct lift irrigation schemes across the State, Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu informed the Assembly on Monday (February 23).

Responding to questions raised by members during the Question Hour, the Minister said that out of 1,008 lift irrigation schemes in the State, 613 are currently non-functional. Only 158 schemes are fully operational, while the remaining are functioning partially. Further, proposals worth ₹765 crore have been prepared for Operation and Maintenance (O&M) works to ensure the sustainability and efficiency of the irrigation infrastructure. 

Drawing a comparison with the previous government, the Minister said that during the five-year tenure of the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP), only ₹200 crore was allocated for O&M works. “In contrast, our government has allocated ₹708 crore in just one year, which clearly shows the difference in commitment,” he asserted.

The Minister alleged that the neglect of irrigation lift schemes during the previous five years had deprived nearly four lakh acres of agricultural land of irrigation water. He pointed out that due to the lack of maintenance since 2019, nearly 50% of the ayacut under the Paidimetta Lift Irrigation Scheme has not been receiving water.

Highlighting specific instances of deterioration, he said that out of 54 inlets on the Yanamadurru drain, as many as 46 are in a dilapidated condition. He further alleged that during the previous regime, the maintenance system for projects, canals, and drains had collapsed completely. Essential works such as desilting, repairs to locks, shutters and ropes, and even routine greasing were reportedly neglected.

The Minister stated that no funds were spent on repairs over the past five years, leading to the closure of several lift irrigation schemes.

Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Mr. Ramanaidu said the present administration is determined to effectively utilise all available water resources to ensure irrigation for every acre in the State.