Telangana Eyes New Barrage Plans Amid Kaleshwaram Setback

NEWS CHARIOT:-With the Kaleshwaram project under scrutiny following the sinking of the Medigadda barrage, the Telangana government is revisiting the long-pending Pranahita-Chevella project to address the state’s water needs. Originally initiated by the YS Rajasekhar Reddy-led government in 2008 to draw 165 TMC of water from Tummidihetti, the project was sidelined after Telangana’s formation in favor of Kaleshwaram. Now, with the National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) advising reconstruction of Medigadda’s damaged block, alternative plans are gaining momentum.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy recently announced plans to revive Tummidihetti as a viable option. However, Maharashtra’s objections to a barrage at 152 meters height due to submergence concerns have led Telangana to explore options downstream. A likely alternative is at Borepally, 9 km downstream, which avoids these issues and maintains a gravity flow system to Yellampally, eliminating the need for costly lift infrastructure.

Officials are also considering building a rubber dam at Tummidihetti to divert water via Sundilla to Yellampally through gravity, reducing energy and financial burdens. Environmental concerns also factor in, with a tiger reserve nearby requiring feasibility studies for minimal ecological disruption.

With 71.5 km of gravity canal already laid from Tummidihetti to Mylaram, the government is evaluating both lift and gravity-based solutions. The project is estimated to irrigate 2 lakh acres, benefiting constituencies such as Chennur, Bellampalli, Sirpur, and Asifabad.

Given the 18-year gap since initial studies, updated hydrological and geological assessments are being planned. Meanwhile, the future of Medigadda remains uncertain, with officials saying only 5 TMC water can be safely stored even post-repair, casting doubt on its long-term utility.

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