Polavaram Irrigation Project Advances Despite Structural Challenges
The Polavaram Irrigation Project aims to create an irrigation potential of 436,825 hectares and generate 960 MW of hydropower. Following significant structural damage due to flooding, reconstruction has resumed, with an expected completion date of October 2026, impacting water resource management in Southern India.
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The Polavaram Irrigation Project, located on the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh, is designed to support irrigation across 436,825 hectares, generate 960 MW of hydropower, and supply drinking water to 2.85 million people. After floods in August 2020 damaged the diaphragm wall, reconstruction was mandated, escalating costs by approximately ₹1,000 crore and delaying overall project completion.
As of April 2026, the new 1,372-meter diaphragm wall has been completed, allowing the project to enter its final phase with 80% of headworks done. The project is expected to stabilize irrigation in both the Godavari and Krishna deltas, significantly enhancing agricultural productivity and addressing regional water disputes.
Completion of rehabilitation and resettlement remains a key challenge before reservoir impoundment can begin. The project’s successful execution could significantly boost Andhra Pradesh's agricultural economy and facilitate inter-state water resource sharing.
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