Bhadradri Kothagudem, Telangana – On Thursday, Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy officially inaugurated the Sitarama Lift Irrigation Project (SLIP) in Bhadradri Kothagudem district, marking a significant milestone in Telangana’s efforts to enhance its irrigation infrastructure. The inauguration event featured the unveiling of the project’s pylon and the activation of the second pump house, with Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka and Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy also playing key roles in the ceremony.
Enhancing Agricultural Output Through SLIP
The Sitarama Lift Irrigation Project is poised to transform agriculture in Telangana by addressing the chronic water scarcity in drought-prone regions. The project’s primary objective is to lift water from the Godavari River to irrigate extensive tracts of land, thereby significantly boosting agricultural productivity and supporting the local economy. The project is a crucial element in the state’s strategy to modernize and expand its irrigation systems, ensuring a reliable water supply throughout the year.
Minister Niranjan Reddy emphasized the project’s importance, highlighting its potential to improve agricultural productivity and foster sustainable water management in Telangana. The completion of SLIP represents the government’s commitment to addressing water scarcity and supporting rural development.
Live: Hon'ble CM Sri.A.Revanth Reddy Participates in the Unveiling Of Pylon & Switching on Pumps of SLIP https://t.co/eIr6c6UaRr
— Revanth Reddy (@revanth_anumula) August 15, 2024
Project Overview
The Sita Rama Lift Irrigation Project is designed to draw water from the Godavari River, specifically upstream of the existing Dummugudem Anicut. This water will then be lifted to irrigate a command area spanning across Khammam, Bhadradri-Kothagudem, and Mahabubabad districts. The project envisions both bringing new lands under cultivation and stabilizing existing agricultural practices
| Project Highlight | Details |
|---|---|
| Inauguration Date | Thursday, 15/08/2024 |
| Inaugurated By | Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy |
| Key Participants |
– Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka (Inaugurated the first pump house) – Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy (Launched the third pump house) |
| Project Location | Bhadradri Kothagudem District, Telangana |
| Primary Objective | Enhance water supply to drought-prone areas in Telangana, support agriculture, and improve local economy |
| Water Source | Godavari River |
| Canal Foundation Stone Laid | 9-km canal worth Rs 100 crore from SLIP to Wyra reservoir |
| Benefits of Canal |
– Provides drinking water to 12 mandals – Facilitates irrigation for thousands of acres |
| New Lift Irrigation Schemes |
– Two schemes in Redla Kunta village, Kodad constituency – Worth Rs 53.58 crore – Will supply water to 25,000 acres |
| Ministerial Announcements |
– Komatireddy Venkat Reddy plans to meet Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah for water sourcing – Implementation of provident fund for municipal workers from April 1, 2024 |
| Project Categories |
– Category A: Almost completed – Category B: Completed above 50% – Category C: Under 50% completion |
| Total Area to be Irrigated | 5.84 lakh acres |
| Total Estimated Cost | Rs 7,500 crore |
| Size Ranking | Third largest irrigation project in Telangana, after Kaleshwaram and Palamuru Ranga Reddy lift irrigation schemes |
| Coverage Area | Erstwhile Khammam district and parts of Warangal |
- Command Area: The project aims to cover a total of 6.74 lakh acres, including 3.28 lakh acres of new ayacut and stabilizing 3.45 lakh acres of existing ayacut
- Water Source: The Godavari River, specifically upstream of the Dummugudem Anicut.
- Districts Benefited: Khammam, Bhadradri-Kothagudem, and Mahabubabad.
Project Components
The SitaRama Lift Irrigation Project involves several key components:
- Lift Irrigation System: A sophisticated system of pumps and canals will be constructed to lift water from the Godavari and distribute it to the command area.
- Power Supply: The project requires substantial power to operate the lift irrigation system. This will be met through various sources, including renewable energy options.
- Infrastructure Development: Construction of canals, distributaries, and minors to efficiently deliver water to the fields.
- Land Acquisition: Acquiring necessary land for the project’s infrastructure.
- Environmental Impact Mitigation: Measures to minimize the project’s impact on the environment.
Also read: Key Highlights of Telangana Irrigation Projects 2024-25
New Canal and Lift Irrigation Schemes(SLIP Telangana)
key ministers including Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka, Uttam Kumar Reddy, Ponguleti Srinivasa Reddy, and Tummala Nageswara Rao laid the foundation for a 9-km canal, valued at Rs 100 crore for Sitarama Lift Irrigation Project. This canal, extending from SLIP to the Wyra reservoir, aims to provide drinking water to 12 mandals and facilitate irrigation for thousands of acres of farmland. The project will ensure continuous availability of Godavari water, addressing both drinking water and irrigation needs.
Additionally, in Redla Kunta village of Kodad constituency, the foundation stone for two new lift irrigation schemes was laid. These schemes, valued at Rs 53.58 crore, are expected to supply water to 25,000 acres of farmland, further enhancing the region’s agricultural capabilities.
Future Plans and Collaborations
Roads and Buildings Minister Komatireddy Venkat Reddy announced plans to meet with Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to discuss the possibility of sourcing additional drinking water from Karnataka to Telangana. This initiative aims to secure a stable water supply in anticipation of the upcoming summer.
In a significant move for municipal workers, Komatireddy also announced the implementation of a provident fund started on April 1, 2024. This initiative will address various issues faced by municipal workers, reflecting the government’s broader commitment to improving public services.
Benefits of the Project
The SitaRama Lift Irrigation Project has numerous benefits to the region:
- Increased Agricultural Productivity: By providing a reliable water supply, the project will enhance crop yields and diversify cropping patterns.
- Economic Growth: The project is expected to boost the local economy by creating employment opportunities and increasing agricultural income.
- Rural Development: Improved infrastructure and access to water will contribute to overall rural development.
- Food Security: A stable food supply can be ensured through increased agricultural production.
- Groundwater Recharge: The project can potentially contribute to groundwater recharge in the region.
Also read: Top 10 Mega Projects In Telangana 2024: A Detailed Overview
Project Categories and Future Goals
The Sitarama Lift Irrigation Project is categorized into three phases based on completion status: The goal is to bring 5.84 lakh acres under irrigation by completing ongoing projects at an estimated cost of Rs 7,500 crore.
- Category A (almost completed),
- Category B (more than 50% completed),
- Category C (under 50% completed).
Constructed in Dummugudem village, Bhadradri Kothagudem district, SLIP is the third-largest irrigation project in Telangana, following the Kaleshwaram and Palamuru Ranga Reddy lift irrigation schemes. It will serve areas in the erstwhile Khammam district and parts of Warangal.
Conclusion
The inauguration of the Sitarama Lift Irrigation Project is a landmark achievement in Telangana’s infrastructure development. It reflects the state government’s dedication to addressing critical water needs, supporting agricultural growth, and enhancing rural development. The project promises to bring substantial benefits to the region, ensuring a more reliable water supply and improved agricultural productivity.
Frequently Asked Questions:
SLIP is a major irrigation project in Telangana, designed to lift water from the Godavari River to irrigate drought-prone areas, boosting agricultural productivity and supporting regional development.
The project improves water supply for irrigation and drinking, increases crop yields, generates employment, promotes sustainable water management, and supports economic growth in rural areas.
SLIP provides reliable irrigation to vast tracts of land, allowing for multiple cropping seasons and higher agricultural output, which in turn enhances farmers’ incomes.
The canal diverts Godavari water to the Wyra reservoir, providing drinking water to 12 mandals and irrigation water to thousands of acres, helping combat water scarcity.
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