Medigadda may require end-to-end diaphragm wall as part of its rehabilitation, says Minister

The rehabilitation of Medigadda barrage in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project may involve constructing an end-to-end diaphragm wall, according to Irrigation Minister N. Uttam Kumar Reddy. Speaking to reporters in Huzurnagar, Reddy explained that the diaphragm wall could span the entire width of the barrage, providing comprehensive protection to its foundation.

Additionally, strengthening and extending the downstream stilling basins for all three barrages - Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla - is also under consideration. These stilling basins are expected to be strengthened to reduce floodwater velocity and improve energy dissipation. The preliminary examination of technical tests conducted at the three barrages supports these proposed interventions.

Reddy noted that the final rehabilitation designs from the commissioned agencies, IIT Bombay and AFRY India, are still pending. Once the design agencies finalize the findings, they expect to submit the design report within two to three weeks. The rehabilitation works are anticipated to commence in November or December and be completed by June 2027, ahead of the next monsoon season.

Reddy emphasized that repairing the damaged barrages is technically more complex than building new ones, but the government has decided to proceed with the repairs, rehabilitation, and rebuilding for the benefit of Telangana. Regarding water usage, Reddy mentioned that a record 340 tmc ft was utilized in 2025-26, despite the Kaleshwaram barrages' inability to utilize any water due to construction faults.