PK orders faster execution of Palnadu–Prakasam mega drinking water projects

Metro India News | AMARAVATI

Deputy Chief Minister and Minister for Panchayat Raj and Rural Water Supply Pawan Kalyan has directed officials to accelerate the execution of the Palnadu and Prakasam Mega Water Grid projects under the Jal Jeevan Mission–Amarajeevi Jaladhara scheme, stressing that every household should receive safe drinking water within the stipulated timeline.

Reviewing the progress of the nearly Rs 2,500-crore projects on Wednesday, Pawan Kalyan said the state must prepare in advance for possible drinking water shortages as El Nino-induced drought conditions are expected to affect several regions this year. He instructed officials to give special attention to drought-prone districts such as Palnadu and Prakasam.

Officials informed the Minister that the Rs 1,290-crore Prakasam Mega Water Grid, which will provide drinking water to 593 habitations across seven Assembly constituencies, has crossed 40% completion in the construction of intake wells. Work on the 119 MLD water treatment plant, reservoirs and allied infrastructure is progressing, while 53 km of pipeline has already been laid.

The Rs 1,200-crore Palnadu Water Grid, aimed at supplying drinking water to 235 habitations, has completed 152 km of pipeline network. Construction of intake wells, reservoirs and overhead tanks is also progressing. Together, the two projects have completed more than 200 km of pipeline laying.

Pawan Kalyan directed officials to ensure there is no compromise on quality and to immediately resolve bottlenecks such as forest clearances and pipeline alignment issues. He also announced that, after recovering fully from his shoulder surgery, he would personally inspect the projects on the ground to monitor the quality and pace of execution.

He said the coalition government has accorded top priority to these projects, which are expected to provide permanent drinking water security to more than 1.6 million people across 10 Assembly constituencies in Palnadu and Prakasam districts once completed.