Ghosh Commission's KLIS Investigation Resumes

The Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose Commission is set to resume its investigation into the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIS) today.

The investigation focuses on the Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla barrages.

To date the Commission has examined 109 individuals and concluded a public inquiry based on affidavits from engineers, design consultants, operations and maintenance personnel, and representatives of the construction agencies associated with the project. A comprehensive report, extending to 400 pages, has been drafted.

However, the Commission expressed concerns over inconsistencies in the testimonies given to it. On November 26, 2024, it admonished several engineers for providing conflicting and misleading information, and warned them of serious consequences, including criminal proceedings. It stated the importance of accurate and coherent testimonies, especially regarding the design and construction of specific blocks within the Sundilla barrage.

This phase of the investigation then aims to revisit testimonies from key individuals. It will scrutinise the roles of the engineers involved in the project approvals and construction. Fresh notices have been issued, effective from February 27, summoning engineers, including retired Chief Design Engineer Surender Reddy and Kaleshwaram Corporation Managing Director Hariram, for further questioning.

The State government has granted the Commission an additional two-month extension to submit its findings.

The Kaleshwaram project, one of the world's largest multi-stage lift irrigation schemes, has been under scrutiny due to alleged irregularities in the construction of its key barrages. The outcomes of this investigation are expected to shed light on these concerns and guide future actions.