Race Against Time: 3-Month Deadline Set for Tummidihetti DPR

The state government has fast-tracked preparations for the Tummidihetti barrage under the Pranahita–Chevella Lift Irrigation project, setting a three-month deadline for the private agency RV Associates to complete the detailed project report (DPR).

After the DPR is finalised, the state will hold consultations with Maharashtra on the proposed height of the barrage and seek approval from the Central Water Commission (CWC). The original plan envisaged drawing water from the Pranahita River and conveying it through a 71-km canal to the Yellampalli barrage. However, the presence of coal seams along the alignment raised safety concerns and significantly increased costs.

Under the revised proposal, the Tummidihetti barrage will be directly linked to the Sundilla barrage, avoiding coal-bearing zones. Officials said the new alignment offers both technical and economic advantages, though additional studies will be required to finalise the design.

According to officials, the altered alignment would simplify construction and reduce the need for multiple environmental clearances. A report prepared by State Advisor (Irrigation) Adityanath Das will be reviewed alongside the DPR, and safety norms prescribed by the National Dam Safety Authority will also be incorporated into the project planning.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.