Telangana Cabinet Reviews Kaleshwaram Irrigation Report

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The Telangana state cabinet, led by Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy convened today to examine the Ghose Commission report on the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP), one of the state’s largest and most expensive infrastructure undertakings. The report investigates alleged irregularities and technical issues in the multi-crore project, which has been under public scrutiny since structural damages were detected in key barrage components.

Alongside the main report, which spans over 600 pages, the cabinet also reviewed a supplementary summary prepared by a three-member expert committee. This supplementary document identifies individuals and entities reportedly responsible for damage to parts of the project, including the main Medigadda barrage. The findings are expected to play a critical role in determining accountability and shaping the government’s course of action.

According to officials, the Ghose Commission examined design, construction, and quality control processes, as well as administrative and financial decisions taken during the project’s execution. The commission is believed to have scrutinized procurement methods, contractor performance, and the role of supervising agencies in ensuring the project’s safety and efficiency.

The Kaleshwaram project, launched to provide irrigation water to millions of acres and boost agricultural productivity in Telangana, has faced criticism over escalating costs, engineering flaws, and delays. Reports of damage to the barrage structure have raised concerns about the safety, long-term viability, and maintenance expenses of the massive irrigation scheme.

The cabinet’s discussions reportedly centered on two main priorities: ensuring that those responsible for lapses are held accountable and identifying measures to restore and strengthen the damaged infrastructure. Government sources indicated that repair and reinforcement work will proceed in parallel with any legal or administrative action against those found at fault.

The state government is expected to present the full Ghose Commission report, along with the supplementary findings, in the upcoming assembly sessions. Officials said the presentation will allow for open legislative debate and enable policymakers to decide on further steps, including potential reforms in large-scale project management and monitoring practices.

Chief Minister Revanth Reddy has repeatedly emphasized the importance of transparency and public trust in handling the Kaleshwaram issue. His administration has stated that ensuring the project’s operational integrity is crucial for the livelihoods of farmers who rely on its water supply. The government has also sought to reassure the public that irrigation needs will continue to be met during repair operations.

Political observers note that the release of the report and the cabinet’s response could have significant implications for the state’s political landscape, especially given the scale of investment in the Kaleshwaram project and its prominence in Telangana’s development agenda.

With the cabinet’s review completed, the next steps will involve legislative scrutiny, technical assessments, and the formulation of a long-term strategy to safeguard the project’s future. The government’s handling of the report’s findings will likely set the tone for its broader approach to infrastructure accountability in Telangana.