Medigadda, Annaram, Sundilla barrages under scientific restoration

Hyderabad: The Telangana government reported steady progress in the restoration of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages, which form part of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. The rehabilitation is being carried out under the supervision of the Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS).

At a review meeting held at the Dr B.R. Ambedkar Telangana Secretariat, Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy said the restoration process would ensure long-term structural stability through a fully scientific approach.

IIT-linked firms invited for technical integrity

The government has invited Requests for Proposals from firms with proven technical expertise, giving preference to those associated with IITs or central institutions. Reddy said that design flaws identified by various investigative reports — including those from the NDSA, Vigilance Department, and Judicial Commission — would be addressed through transparent procedures.

The original contractors, he said, would be held responsible for testing and repair costs. With monsoon testing completed, fresh geo-technical and hydraulic studies are expected to begin within three weeks once water levels recede.

Comprehensive irrigation and legal review

Besides Medigadda, Reddy reviewed other major projects such as Sammakka Sarakka, Sitarama Sagar, and Pranahita-Chevella. He asked officials to expedite central approvals and resolve interstate issues with Chhattisgarh.

He also examined legal disputes related to the Krishna Water Tribunal-II and environmental clearance processes. Desiltation works at the Lower Maniar and Kadam dams were reviewed as well.

“Transparency and accountability are key. Every public rupee must yield measurable results,” Reddy said.

I chaired a detailed review meeting today on the rehabilitation of the collapsed Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla barrages of Kaleshwaram Project – a tragic outcome of the reckless decisions and engineering failures under the previous BRS regime.

The Vigilance, NDSA and Judicial… pic.twitter.com/kH7QLPlnoz

— Uttam Kumar Reddy (@UttamINC) November 12, 2025