Hyderabad: The Telangana government appointed a retired Army officer to lead the Kaleshwaram barrages restoration. It stepped up efforts to repair three major structures under the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme.
The government launched a large-scale exercise to repair the Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla barrages. It also examined permanent solutions for structural damage identified at the sites. In addition, it formed a high-level steering committee to coordinate and monitor the work.
Colonel Parikshit Mehra, a retired Army officer with irrigation and tunneling expertise, will convene the committee. The panel will coordinate restoration work and ensure the project returns to operation within the deadline.
The government introduced a strict review mechanism. The committee will meet twice a week to assess progress. Officials must submit daily progress reports on work completed each day.
The government also fixed a deadline for key inspections before the monsoon. Departments must complete all technical studies within the set schedule.
Kaleshwaram barrages restoration tests set before monsoon
Authorities ordered geo-technical and geo-physical tests by May 30. These tests will assess the structural strength of the barrages’ foundations.
The government directed agencies to follow recommendations from the Central Water Commission and the National Dam Safety Authority. These agencies will oversee technical evaluation and dam safety compliance.
The government aims to fully prepare the Annaram and Sundilla barrages first. It will then bring the Medigadda barrage into partial operation.
Kaleshwaram barrages restoration focused on phased reopening
The phased plan prioritises Annaram and Sundilla for early readiness. It then shifts focus to Medigadda.
At the same time, the testing schedule ensures foundation assessments finish before monsoon conditions disrupt field work.
With the steering committee in place, the government tightened supervision through frequent reviews and daily reporting. The appointment of Colonel Mehra signals a focused push to restore the barrages and restart operations in phases.