Srisailam project safety: AP Irrigation Minister condemns false propaganda

Hyderabad: Andhra Pradesh Irrigation Minister Anil Kumar Yadav condemned the false propaganda by opposition parties and some media houses over the maintenance of irrigation projects. He confirmed that there is no threat to the safety of the Srisailam project. The state government reviewed the situation and the condition of the Srisailam project, and there is nothing to worry about, assured the minister.

In a statement, the Irrigation Minister said, “I spoke to officials from the Irrigation Department and got the report from them. All measures are being taken up to maintain the safety of the Srisailam dam. I appeal to opposition parties and a few media houses not to create unnecessary suspicions and myths amongst people over the safety and maintenance of the dam.”

The minister further said that there is nothing to worry about concerning the dam and its storage capacity, as the YSRCP government had taken several measures to protect it.

According to the recent reports, a plunge pool has formed about 100 metres away from the spillway. The force of water released from the dam over the years has created a deepening plunge pool. A study by the National Institute of Oceanography on plunge pools also highlighted a possible creep of the pit towards the dam.

Meanwhile, Rayalaseema Saguneeti Sadhana Samithi has come out with a suggestion on building a flooded canal on Tungabhadra River. “This will thus bypass Srisailam reservoir and take the water to Banakacharla cross regulator. Repairs should be carried out on plunge pool and reservoir walls. Nagarjuna Sagar’s life span is also dependent on proper maintenance of Srisailam dam,” said Bojja Dasharatharami Reddy, president, Rayalaseema Saguneeti Sadhana Samithi.

Srisailam reservoir has been a lifeline for Andhra Pradesh economy and future. Reddy requested the YSRCP government to take immediate remedial measures to protect the Srisailam dam.