Govt. will augment drinking water supply to Tirumala, Tirupati through HNSS, GNSS projects, says Minister Ramanaidu

Andhra Pradesh Water Resources Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu has informed the Legislative Assembly that the government is committed to resolving the drinking water challenges faced by Tirumala and Tirupati by strengthening supply through major irrigation projects.

Raising the issue in the House on Thursday, Tirupati MLA Arani Srinivasulu urged the government to focus on the growing drinking water needs of the pilgrim city. “Increasing number of devotees and expansion of commercial activities in Tirupati have significantly raised water demand, necessitating urgent and long-term measures,” he said.

Responding to the concern, Mr. Ramanaidu said the government had already initiated steps to augment drinking water supply through the Handri–Neeva Sujala Sravanti (HNSS) and Galeru–Nagari Sujala Sravanti (GNSS) projects.

At present, the drinking water needs of Tirupati and Tirumala were being met through three primary sources — K.P. Canal (also known as the SSG Canal), Kalyani Dam, and a series of dams located in Tirumala, including Gogarbham, Akashaganga, Papavinasanam, Kumaradhara and Pasupudhara.

To meet the growing demand and ensure long-term sustainability, the government proposed to supply drinking water through the GNSS Phase-II and the HNSS project. “Under the GNSS Phase-II, water will be allocated specifically for Tirupati and Tirumala,” the Minister said.

‘No IIIT in Puttaparthi’

Puttaparthi MLA Palle Sindhura Reddy sought clarification on the proposal to establish an IIIT in Puttaparthi. Responding to the query, HRD Minister Nara Lokesh said there was no such proposal under the government’s consideration.

“The State has four IIIT campuses and requires ₹600 crore to complete infrastructure works in the existing institutions. The focus is to ensure students are accommodated on the campus premises,” Mr. Lokesh said, adding that the proposal would be brought to the notice of the Chief Minister.

When Polavaram MLA Balaraju raised the issue of transfer of employees in the tribal areas, Minister G. Sandhya Rani said steps were being taken to ensure posting of tribal employees within the tribal regions. “Court-related issues pending since the previous regime have caused complications,” she said.

Scholarships

Vizianagaram MLA Pusapati Aditi Vijayalakshmi sought clarification on the status of pre-matric and post-matric scholarships, and revision of mess charges provided to the students.

Responding to the query, BC Welfare Minister Savita said directions had been given to review and enhance the mess charges. She said the government was committed to ensuring students quality food with adequate nutritional value in hostels and educational institutions.

“Welfare of the students remains a priority for the government and measures will be taken to improve facilities and financial support systems. The proposed revision is aimed at addressing rising costs and ensuring better living conditions for students, particularly those from economically weaker sections,” the Minister said.