Devadula Phase-VI will be completed by Dec. 2028 to benefit Tungaturthi: Uttam Kumar Reddy

Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy announced on Saturday that the government aims to complete Phase-VI of the Devadula Lift Irrigation Scheme by December 2028, benefiting the Tungaturthi constituency in Suryapet district. Speaking at an Independence Day event, Reddy highlighted the priority given to the project's completion within the current term.

With over two years remaining, the government is determined to remove obstacles and operationalize the remaining components of the project to ensure assured irrigation benefits. The completion of Phase-VI would be particularly significant for Tungaturthi, where agriculture traditionally relied on rainfall and local water sources.

By introducing Godavari water, the scheme would provide a more reliable irrigation source, stabilize existing cropped areas, and allow for the expansion to underserved and unserved regions. The initiative would also enhance water security across Suryapet district, reduce the vulnerability of agriculture in deficient rainfall years, and improve water resource management by integrating with existing Krishna basin systems and local projects.

Currently, Suryapet district has an ayacut of approximately 5.82 lakh acres, with the government pursuing both short-term water management measures and long-term infrastructure development to protect and strengthen the agricultural base. The minister also mentioned three other major irrigation projects totaling approximately ₹2,392 crore, which could provide irrigation to nearly 77,000 acres.

These projects include the Mahatma Gandhi Muktyala Branch Canal Lift Irrigation Scheme, Jawahar Jampadu Branch Canal, and Rajiv Gandhi Lift Irrigation Scheme. Additionally, the government is accelerating land acquisition and other requirements for these projects, including lift irrigation schemes at Mothe, Redlagunta, and Rajiv Shantinagar R-9.

Significant investments have also been made in modernizing the Nagarjunasagar Left Canal and Musi project canals, with budgets of ₹396 crore and ₹70 crore, respectively.