CM Naidu Says Pattiseema LI Met Krishna Delta Irrigation, Rayalaseema Water Needs

Vijayawada: Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said Pattiseema Lift Irrigation Project has helped meet irrigation needs of the Krishna delta, while improving water security in Rayalaseema. His statement came in response to his felicitation by Krishna delta farmers and representatives of irrigation associations at the Secretariat in Velagapudi, Amaravati, on Saturday, thanking him for the transfer of 500 TMC ft of Godavari floodwaters to Krishna basin through the Pattiseema project over the past 11 years.

Krishna delta farmers described Naidu as the “AP Water Man” for ensuring water availability across different regions of the state. The delegation of farmers, accompanied by water resources minister Nimmala Ramanaidu, presented a shawl to the CM, expressing their gratitude.

They pointed out that transferring Godavari floodwater to Krishna basin had helped meet irrigation requirements in the delta, while conserving Krishna water in the Srisailam reservoir for use in Rayalaseema. Naidu responded saying Pattiseema has supported agricultural production by ensuring water availability to Krishna basin as well as Rayalaseema. He maintained that the abundant crops raised by farmers using water supplied through Pattiseema have contributed to the state’s prosperity.

The Chief Minister said the project demonstrated how water could be supplied to one region while improving water security in another area. Using Godavari water in the Krishna basin allowed the state to conserve Krishna water in Srisailam for agricultural and drinking water needs of Rayalaseema, he pointed out. Naidu explained that the improved water availability has enabled the government to supply water to industrial projects, such as Kia in Rayalaseema. He said the government is working to expand canals and maximise the benefits of irrigation projects and improve water availability across Andhra Pradesh. He said projects would be completed as per plans towards strengthening water security in Andhra Pradesh.