Government Schemes📖 3 min read

Polavaram Project Phase-I on Track for 2027 Completion

The Centre has informed the Lok Sabha that Phase-I of the Polavaram irrigation project is expected to be completed by 2027.

Source: HT India News
Summary of News

The Union government recently updated the Lok Sabha on the progress of the Polavaram major irrigation project. The Centre stated that Phase-I of the project, located on the Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh, is on track for completion by 2027. Financial assistance from the Central government is specifically limited to the approved irrigation components of Phase-I. This restriction means that water impounding for the Polavaram project will be limited to 41.15 meters. The Polavaram project is a multi-purpose national project aimed at providing irrigation, drinking water, and hydropower generation. Its completion is crucial for the agricultural development of the region.

Why It Matters

The Polavaram Project is a significant national project, relevant for UPSC GS Paper I (Geography) and GS Paper III (Economy, Infrastructure). Aspirants should understand its location, purpose, and the financial model involving the Centre and State. Questions often focus on major irrigation projects, their benefits, and challenges. This news highlights the project's timeline and funding specifics, which are important for current affairs.

Key Points for Exam
  • Polavaram Project is located on the Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh.
  • Phase-I of the project is targeted for completion by 2027.
  • Central financial assistance is limited to approved irrigation components of Phase-I.
  • Water impounding for the project will be restricted to 41.15 meters.
  • The project is a multi-purpose national irrigation initiative.
  • The update was provided by the Centre to the Lok Sabha.
Important Keywords Explained
Polavaram Projectscheme

The Polavaram Project is a multi-purpose national irrigation project on the Godavari River near Polavaram village in West Godavari District, Andhra Pradesh. It aims to provide irrigation to 2.91 lakh hectares, generate 960 MW of hydropower, and supply drinking water to 540 villages. The project also includes inter-basin transfer of water to the Krishna River basin.

Godavari Riverplace

The Godavari River is the second-longest river in India after the Ganga. It originates near Trimbak in Nashik, Maharashtra, and flows eastward for 1,465 km, draining into the Bay of Bengal. It is often referred to as the 'Dakshin Ganga' (Ganga of the South) and is a major source of irrigation in peninsular India.

Lok Sabhaorganization

The Lok Sabha, or House of the People, is the lower house of India's bicameral Parliament. Its members are directly elected by adult universal suffrage from single-member constituencies. The maximum strength of the Lok Sabha is 550 members, with 530 representing states and 20 representing Union Territories. It holds significant legislative and financial powers.

Additional Facts & Context
1The Polavaram Project was accorded national project status in 2014.
2The project's total estimated cost was revised to Rs 55,548.87 crore in 2017-18 price levels.
3The project's full reservoir level (FRL) is designed for 45.72 meters.
4The project is expected to irrigate 7.2 lakh acres of land in Andhra Pradesh.
Examiner's Tip

UPSC and State PSC exams frequently ask about major irrigation projects, their benefits, environmental impacts, and funding mechanisms. SSC exams may focus on the river, state, or completion year.

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Memory Trick

Remember 'Pola-V' for 'Pola-varam' and 'V' for '2027' (looks like a V). It's on the 'Godavari' river, which sounds like 'Go-da-very' important project.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary purpose of the Polavaram Project?

The Polavaram Project is a multi-purpose national irrigation project. Its primary purposes include providing irrigation to agricultural lands, supplying drinking water, and generating hydroelectric power. It also facilitates inter-basin water transfer.

Where is the Polavaram Project located in India?

The Polavaram Project is located on the Godavari River in the West Godavari District of Andhra Pradesh, India. It is a key infrastructure project for the state's development.

When is Phase-I of the Polavaram Project expected to be completed?

Phase-I of the Polavaram Project is expected to be completed by the year 2027. This timeline was recently confirmed by the Central government in the Lok Sabha.

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