Godavari waters through Polavaram left canal to meet North Coastal Andhra needs from September 2
Godavari river water will be diverted to North Coastal Andhra Pradesh via the Polavaram Left Canal starting September 2 to address regional water shortages. Officials noted this is an interim measure while the main dam project remains under construction.
Why it matters
Water security is a vital issue for industrial and municipal growth in Andhra Pradesh, necessitating interim infrastructure solutions.
In a significant move to address the growing drinking water and industrial needs of North Coastal Andhra Pradesh, Godavari river waters are set to be channelled into the region through the Polavaram Left Canal on September 2, 2026. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu will formally mark the occasion by performing ‘Jala Harathi’ at Sitarampuram in Payakaraopeta mandal of Anakapalli district.
However, irrigation officials clarified that the release of water does not indicate the completion of the main Polavaram irrigation project, where construction on the dam and headworks remains ongoing. Instead, the government is utilising existing pump arrangements and completed stretches of the left canal network to draw and divert river water to meet pressing regional demand.
“Yes, the release of water does not indicate the completion of the main Polavaram irrigation project,” an irrigation official said.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in