Even After a Decade, Krishna Board and Polavaram Authority Remain in Hyderabad

Even more than a decade after the state bifurcation, two key institutions allotted to Andhra Pradesh the Krishna River Management Board (KRMB) and the Polavaram Project Authority continue to operate from Hyderabad. Although preparations are underway to relocate these offices to Andhra Pradesh, allegations have surfaced that senior officials of these bodies are creating obstacles in the process.

In the case of the Krishna Board, a new proposal has been formulated to shift the main office to Amaravati while retaining the Chairman and one division in Hyderabad. Similarly, although plans are in place to move the Polavaram Project Authority to Rajamahendravaram, arrangements are reportedly being made to continue the CEO’s camp office in Hyderabad. These proposals are said to have been forwarded to the Union Ministry of Jal Shakti. Despite repeated directions from the Central Government to relocate the Polavaram Authority to Rajamahendravaram, a complete shift has not yet taken place. While an office building has been rented and a limited number of staff have been transferred, full relocation has not been implemented. Though orders have been issued to establish the authority fully in Rajamahendravaram from April, efforts are ongoing to retain the CEO’s office in Hyderabad.

Similarly, attempts are being made to relocate the Krishna Board to Amaravati or Vijayawada. However, a proposal to retain the Chairman’s camp office in Hyderabad has triggered controversy. It is also reported that some Andhra Pradesh officials who have been working in Hyderabad for a long time are reluctant to shift and are supporting the move to keep certain operations there. As a result, there is growing criticism that key institutions meant for Andhra Pradesh continue to remain confined to Hyderabad.