Agriculture Minister Responds to Criticism
In Khammam, Agriculture Minister Tummala Nageswara Rao addressed comments made by former minister Harish Rao about the Sitarama project during a press conference on Tuesday. “I don’t push buttons for publicity,” the minister firmly stated.
Rao shared his past experiences, mentioning his involvement in the construction of various projects when Andhra Pradesh was united. He emphasized his dedication to transforming Khammam district into a green area using water from the Godavari River. He explained that due to budget constraints in the previous state, the Devada project was chosen over Dummagudem. He also recalled that the Indira Rajiv Sagar project was left incomplete following the untimely death of YS Rajashekhar Reddy.
Reflecting on his political journey, the minister explained that he joined the BRS (formerly TRS) when KCR called him to support the project. However, he pointed out that during their time in power, only pump houses were constructed, and bridges needed at stream bends for completing the Biji Kothur, Pusu Gudem, and Kamalapuram pump houses were not built.
Minister Rao joined Congress with the intention to ensure the Sitarama project’s completion. He highlighted ongoing challenges, such as the Julur Padu tunnel work not starting and the incomplete Yatala Kunta Tunnel. In response, the construction of the Viera Link Canal was initiated to prevent pump houses from becoming ineffective without distributary canals. He stated that even if Krishna waters are delayed, monsoon irrigation water is now supplied using the Godavari waters through this canal, with 16 structures completed in just two months.
The minister also shared his achievements, mentioning that he had implemented 32 lift irrigation schemes in drought-prone areas. He cited the Bhakta Ramadas project as a permanent solution for the Paleru drought. Rao expressed satisfaction with the irrigation water projects he had developed for farmers, and he admitted feeling hurt by Harish Rao’s comments.
