Naidu Hailed as Water Hero: Krishna Delta Farmers Celebrate 500 TMC Diversion

Farmers from the Krishna delta on Tuesday felicitated Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu for the successful diversion of 500 TMC ft of water through the Pattiseema lift irrigation scheme over the past 11 years. The event, held in the delta region, saw agricultural communities lauding Naidu for what they described as a landmark achievement in ensuring water security for the state.

The Pattiseema project, a key component of the Polavaram irrigation initiative, links the Godavari and Krishna rivers to irrigate the drought-prone Krishna delta. According to official figures, the project has diverted 500 TMC ft of water since its inception, providing a lifeline to thousands of farmers. "This water has transformed our lives and secured our crops," said a local farmer during the felicitation. The Chief Minister reiterated his commitment to completing the Polavaram project to further boost irrigation and power generation.

The felicitation underscores the political significance of water management in Andhra Pradesh, where agriculture remains the backbone of the economy. While farmers praised Naidu, opposition parties have previously questioned the project's cost and environmental impact. The event is likely to bolster Naidu's image as a champion of farmers ahead of upcoming elections. Next steps include the full completion of Polavaram, which is expected to irrigate an additional 7.2 lakh acres.