Gadwal: Former MLA D.K. Bharat Simha Reddy criticized the state government and the Irrigation Department for misleading the public about repairs to the Rayalampadu Reservoir. After visiting the Jurala Project and Rayalampadu, he accused officials of making false promises.
He expressed frustration over delays in fixing the reservoir. Reddy used a local idiom to describe the government’s superficial solutions, accusing them of making empty promises.
Reddy specifically criticized Irrigation Minister Uttam Kumar Reddy, stating that during the Gattu Lift Review Meeting, the minister promised immediate repairs. However, six months later, there were no changes, and the public is tired of these repeated false assurances.
Reddy pointed out a dangerous design flaw in the reservoir, which was meant to hold only 2 TMC of water. Plans to increase capacity to 4 TMC without rebuilding the bund could lead to disaster. He said previous safety warnings and fund mismanagement complaints were ignored.
Reddy mentioned a 300-page report documenting these issues, claiming he would retire from politics if any part of it was proven false. He called for a judicial inquiry by a High Court judge, distrusting government-led investigations.
Addressing the Jurala Project, Reddy insisted he spoke truthfully, not to incite fear. He questioned the removal of silt if lifts weren’t operational, alleged that Swapna Construction Company was paid Rs. 4 crores annually for no work, and asked why four gates remained closed despite damage. He challenged officials to publicly address these concerns.
During his inspection, Reddy was joined by senior BJP leaders like Bandala Venkata Ramulu, Rajaka Narasimha, and others. Their presence suggests the BJP might ramp up its focus on alleged corruption in Telangana’s irrigation projects.
The former MLA’s strong statements and request for a judicial probe put pressure on the government to address issues at Rayalampadu and Jurala. As monsoon season approaches, how the state handles these allegations will be closely watched.
