Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage Set for ₹150 Crore Modernization

The Andhra Pradesh State Government has approved ₹150 crore for the repair and modernization of the historic Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage at Dowleswaram in Rajamahendravaram.

Irrigation engineers are currently finalizing detailed project reports, with tenders expected to be invited shortly. Renovation work is scheduled to begin after the current flood season. The barrage is a critical infrastructure asset, supplying irrigation water to nearly 10 lakh hectares and providing drinking water to around 80 lakh people across the region.

According to Barrage Superintending Engineer Gopinath, the project will include the replacement of 117 severely corroded gates out of the total 175—110 of which have rusted completely—leading to water leakage and reduced operational efficiency.

The upgrade will also involve the construction of three new head sluices for the East, Central, and Western Delta canals to ensure consistent water distribution. Additionally, eight scour sluices will be repaired to enhance silt removal and flood flushing capacity. The project will also encompass extensive civil and electrical works aimed at restoring the barrage to its full functional capability.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.