Judicial Scrutiny of a Major Irrigation Project in Telangana

A judicial commission has submitted its report highlighting alleged irregularities and structural faults in a large multi-purpose irrigation project in Telangana, prompting legislative discussion on its future.

Overview of the Project

• Nature – Multi-stage lift irrigation scheme on the Godavari river.
• Purpose – Designed to provide irrigation to over 16 lakh acres in 13 districts, stabilise existing ayacut, and supply drinking and industrial water.
• Storage & Allocation – Planned storage of 240 TMC ft, with allocations for irrigation (169 TMC ft), drinking water for urban and rural needs (40 TMC ft), and industrial uses (16 TMC ft).
• Scale – Canal network exceeding 1,800 km.

Execution and Cost

• Initial Cost Estimate – ?71,000 crore.
• Cost Escalation – Rose to over ?1 lakh crore, with further expenditure expected for finishing works.
• Infrastructure – Construction of multiple barrages for water storage and regulation.

Points of Controversy

• Change in Project Location – Shift from an earlier cleared site despite water availability as per official assessments.
• Foundation Concerns – Allegations of building on permeable foundations unable to withstand high water inflows.
• Utilisation of Earlier Works – Abandonment of partially completed works from a previous irrigation scheme at the earlier site.
• Decision-Making Process – Allegations of unilateral decision-making without formal cabinet sanction.

Structural and Technical Failures

• Barrage Damage – Sinking of piers and development of cracks in multiple barrages within a few years of commissioning.
• Ignoring Technical Advice – Storing large volumes of water contrary to engineering recommendations.

Judicial Inquiry

• Commission Formation – Headed by a former Supreme Court judge to investigate irregularities.
• Process – Examination of over 110 witnesses, including political and administrative figures involved in project decision-making and fund release.
• Findings – Submitted to the State government for legislative debate.

Political Responses

• Government Stance – Plans to hold detailed legislative discussion, inform the public, and decide the future course with inputs from all political parties.
• Opposition Defence – Claims of statutory approvals from central agencies and ratification by the legislative assembly.

Way Forward:

• Technical Audit – Independent engineering evaluation of all structures to assess safety and repair needs.
• Financial Scrutiny – Detailed public audit of expenditure and cost escalations.
• Transparent Decision-Making – Mandatory cabinet and legislative approvals for large infrastructure projects.
• Hydrological and Environmental Compliance – Strict adherence to expert recommendations before altering project sites.
• Accountability Mechanisms – Clear responsibility fixation on contractors, engineers, and officials for lapses.