CM Chandrababu Dedicates Phase-1 of Veligonda Project to Nation

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the first phase of the Veligonda irrigation project and dedicated it to the nation, fulfilling the long-standing aspiration of the people of Markapuram. The state government organised the inauguration ceremony under the theme ‘Veligonda Jalasirulu–Abhivruddhiki Rekkalu’. Chandrababu performed a water aarti to the Krishna River, offered special prayers and paid his respects by performing a prostration. He later unveiled the project pylon and released water by lifting the project gates.

The arrival of Krishna waters brought cheer among people and farmers across the Markapuram region. The Chief Minister’s water aarti at the Veligonda feeder canal near Gantavanipalli was witnessed with enthusiasm from the gathering. Ministers, MPs and other public representatives attended the event, while tribal women welcomed Chandrababu in their traditional style. Under Phase-1, 10.70 TMC of Krishna water was released into Nallamala Sagar. The project is expected to provide irrigation to around 1.19 lakh acres and drinking water to nearly four lakh people initially. Designed to divert Krishna waters from the Srisailam reservoir through gravity into Nallamala Sagar, the project will cater to irrigation and drinking-water needs through its main canals. Once fully operational, Veligonda is expected to irrigate 4.47 lakh acres and benefit people across 30 mandals in Prakasam, Nellore and Kadapa districts.