Sankaraguptam drain modernisation takes off

kiranmai tutika I amaravati

The anguish of coconut farmers in the Konaseema region has prompted swift and decisive action from the Andhra Pradesh government, with the State launching a major modernisation project of the Sankaraguptam Major Drain to prevent further crop losses caused by seawater ingress and prolonged waterlogging.

State Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan on Tuesday virtually laid the foundation stone for the Rs 20.77 crore Sankaraguptam Major Drain modernisation works from his camp office in Mangalagiri. The project, officials said, is aimed at providing long-term relief to coconut farmers who have suffered heavy losses over the past two decades.

Speaking on the occasion, Pawan Kalyan said the government had responded faster than promised after witnessing the distress of farmers during his visit to the Rajole Assembly constituency last month. “We had assured an action plan within 45 days. Today, within just 35 days, we are initiating full-scale modernisation works. It is particularly meaningful that this solution is being launched on the auspicious occasion of Mukkoti Ekadasi,” he said.

The Deputy Chief Minister recalled how vast coconut plantations had withered due to saline water intrusion through the drain. “Seeing coconut trees bent and dying was deeply painful. Nearly 1.5 lakh trees have already been damaged. Konaseema without coconut groves is unimaginable,” he remarked. He said he immediately brought the issue to the attention of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu, who responded promptly by sanctioning funds despite fiscal constraints.

Under the project, desilting works will be carried out along a stretch from 8.50 km to 16.50 km of the Sankaraguptam Major Drain, while embankments will be strengthened on both sides up to 14.50 km. The modernisation is expected to significantly improve drainage efficiency and prevent future seawater backflow, offering protection to hundreds of coconut farmers in the region.

Pawan Kalyan also drew attention to encroachments along the drain, stating that nearly 250 acres were under illegal occupation. He directed the district administration to address the issue firmly, stressing that modernisation must go hand in hand with protecting the drain from further encroachments.

The Deputy Chief Minister said the Sankaraguptam project was only the beginning. “Across the undivided East Godavari region, nearly Rs 4,000 crore is required for comprehensive modernisation of drains and irrigation canals. We are studying expert reports and will take the issue to the Cabinet for further action,” he said, reiterating the coalition government’s commitment to farmer welfare.

Expressing gratitude to the Chief Minister and the Finance and Water Resources Ministers, Pawan Kalyan said that while past losses could not be reversed, the project would prevent future damage and restore confidence among Konaseema’s coconut farmers. “Our resolve is clear, no farmer in Andhra Pradesh should be forced to shed tears,” he said.