Polavaram Clears New Design, Work to Begin Soon
The Polavaram Irrigation Project, a lifeline for Andhra Pradesh, has entered a decisive phase with the approval of flood-resistant designs for its Diaphragm Wall (D-Wall). After years of delays and structural setbacks, the project now moves forward with renewed technical clarity and political will.
Officials confirmed that the new D-Wall design, developed in consultation with international experts, is expected to be approved by November 25. Execution will begin by December-end, with completion targeted for December 2025. The German firm Bauer Group has been entrusted with the task, bringing global expertise to one of India’s most ambitious water infrastructure efforts.
The D-Wall redesign comes after earlier damage during the 2019 and 2020 floods, which exposed flaws in the cofferdam structure. The revised plan incorporates flood-resilient engineering, ensuring long-term safety and functionality. The Earth-Cum-Rock-Fill (ECRF) dam components will be constructed in parallel, with Gap-1 scheduled for March 2026 and Gap-2 later that year.
Minister Nimmala Ramanaidu, overseeing water resources, expressed confidence in the timeline. He noted that 40% of the D-Wall work is already complete, with 130 of 373 panels finished. Despite seasonal challenges, dewatering efforts have kept progress steady.
The Left Main Canal (LMC), which will channel Godavari water to North Andhra, is also on track for completion by the end of 2025. Bridges along the national highway intersecting the canal are under planning, ensuring seamless connectivity and water flow.
The Centre has sanctioned ₹12,157 crore for Phase-1, with ₹2,800 crore released recently to restart stalled works. The total estimated cost stands at ₹30,436 crore, with ₹25,706 crore to be covered by the Union government.
Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has emphasized accountability and transparency, releasing a white paper that outlines past missteps and future goals. The new phase of Polavaram is not just about engineering—it’s about restoring trust and delivering on promises made to millions.
The project, declared a national priority, aims to irrigate over 7 lakh hectares, provide drinking water to 28 lakh people, and generate 960 MW of hydroelectric power. Its completion will transform the agrarian landscape of coastal Andhra Pradesh and secure water access for generations.
As the monsoon recedes, technical teams are racing against time to finalize approvals and mobilize resources. The upcoming months will be critical, with design validation, material procurement, and site preparation moving in tandem.
Polavaram’s progress is being closely watched by farmers, engineers, and policymakers alike. It represents not just a dam, but a symbol of resilience, reform, and regional pride.
With flood-resistant designs now in place, the project is poised to overcome its past and deliver a future of abundance.
