Unforgettable day declared by CM Naidu upon releasing water from Krishna river into Rayalaseema region
In a significant move for the drought-prone Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu released water from the Krishna River into the Handri Neeva Sujala Sagar (HNSS) project on Thursday. This marked a major milestone in the completion of the ₹696 crore Handri Neeva phase-I canal works.
As part of the ongoing major irrigation and water supply initiative, ₹3,890 crore has been sanctioned for the Handri-Neeva project. From July 15, 2025, 3,850 cusecs of water have been scheduled for release into the Jeedipalli Reservoir under Phase-1 of the project. The water is intended to fill other reservoirs in the region, including Gollapalli, Marala, and Cherlopalli, to support irrigation and groundwater recharge efforts in Rayalaseema.
The HNSS project primarily aims to provide irrigation water to the drought-affected Rayalaseema region by constructing dams and canals across tributaries of the Krishna River. The project supports both agriculture and drinking water supply, aiming to boost agricultural productivity and improve water availability in this historically parched zone.
Naidu reiterated that the government would disburse the Annadata Sukhibhava scheme - ₹20,000 annual financial aid for farmers - as soon as the Centre releases its share of funds. He also emphasised the need to adopt a "give and take" approach between the two Telugu states, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, to avoid disputes, especially regarding water-sharing, as demonstrated in recent deliberations held in New Delhi on Wednesday.
The government is prioritizing the completion of project phases to expand the water supply to all reservoirs and tanks in the Rayalaseema region, ensuring optimized water use. Officials are instructed to develop a coordinated and efficient water management plan, putting a distinct focus on groundwater recharge to sustain water availability in the long term.
Naidu called the day "unforgettable" and said it was an auspicious day in the history of Rayalaseema. Born in Rayalaseema, Naidu understands the region's hardships and has been committed to providing free bus travel for women, starting August 15, and implementing the 700 government services through the WhatsApp-based governance platform 'Mana Mitra' on the same day.
The widening of the Handri Neeva canal is expected to enhance its carrying capacity to 3,850 cusecs. Nearly two lakh acres will be irrigated under the first phase, and another six lakh acres under phase II of the HNSS project. Naidu suggested harnessing excess Godavari water to help both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana irrigate vast stretches of arid land.
The Handri Neeva canals, which span over 554 km, were widened, and the state earmarked ₹3,890 crore for the expansion work. Naidu offered prayers and garments to the Handri Neeva waters in Nandyal district, as per an official statement, further emphasising his commitment to the region's water security and development.
The government has also allocated ₹3,890 crore for the expansion of the Handri-Neeva project, which primarily aims to provide irrigation water to the drought-affected Rayalaseema region in India. Regarding ongoing political discussions, Naidu emphasized the need for a cooperative approach between Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to resolve issues such as water-sharing, specifically citing the potential benefits of harnessing excess Godavari water for irrigation.
