Systematic Measures To Salvage Kaleshwaram: Uttam

Telangana Irrigation and Civil Supplies Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy today said that systematic and scientific efforts were underway to salvage the damaged Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla barrages of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme (KLIS).

He chaired a review meeting at the Secretariat to assess the progress of rehabilitation works and review coordination with the Central Water Commission (CWC).

Speaking at the meeting, the minister said that the government's priority was to restore the barrages responsibly so that the massive public expenditure incurred under the previous BRS regime could be safeguarded and put to proper use.

"The Vigilance, National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) and Judicial Commission reports pointed to systemic failures and irrational decisions that led to the collapse of the Medigadda barrage and leakages in the Annaram and Sundilla barrages. There were lapses at both political and engineering levels. Our government is taking corrective action through scientific methods to salvage the structures," he said.

Reddy said that since the Central Designs Organisation (CDO) of the Irrigation Department had also been criticised by investigating agencies, the government decided to engage independent, highly qualified technical institutions and consultants.

"We approached the CWC for guidance on restoration. The CWC advised that designs be prepared by well-qualified and experienced technical experts, which they will vet, approve and guide through execution," he said.

The minister said that the government had invited Requests for Proposals (RFPs) from reputed firms to that effect. "Several companies have responded, and we are giving preference to those that have formal MoUs or tie-ups with premier institutions such as the IITs or other Government of India technical bodies," he said.

Reddy also said that once the floodwaters receded, a series of tests would be conducted by the Pune-based Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS), a Government of India organisation. These tests, including geophysical and hydraulic investigations, would help determine the extent of damage and guide design consultants in preparing a rehabilitation plan. Testing carried out during the monsoon had been completed and further investigations would begin within 20 days once river discharge levels dropped, he said.

As per reports, five agencies have been shortlisted initially, from which three will be selected for the final stage based on technical and financial evaluations. The criteria for selection is a proven track record in dam safety and tie-ups with reputed technical organisations. The selected consultant will use CWPRS data to prepare detailed designs and cost estimates for restoring all three barrages.

He also said that the designs prepared by the consultants would be vetted by the CWC before execution begins. "Work on rehabilitation will commence as soon as the water recedes and final approvals are received from the CWC. The entire cost of testing and repairs will be borne by the original contractors responsible for the damaged structures. Our goal is to ensure technical integrity, accountability and full recovery of public assets," Reddy said.