On September 2, 2026, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, Chandrababu Naidu, celebrated the arrival of Godavari waters at Payakaraopeta cross regulator. The event included a traditional Jala Harathi ceremony, where the Chief Minister sprinkled sacred water on his head before unveiling a commemorative plaque. A large crowd, consisting of farmers and women, gathered around the canal, showering flowers to honour the inflow of water from the Godavari River.

During this event, women performed rituals, and as the waters began to flow, Naidu offered a Sashtanga Namaskaram, demonstrating his reverence for the river. Farmers expressed gratitude for the arrival of the water, viewing it as a significant boon for agriculture in North Andhra.

The Andhra Pradesh government has laid plans to provide irrigation to 2.87 lakh acres and drinking water to 9.23 lakh residents in districts such as East Godavari, Kakinada, Konaseema, and Anakapalli through the newly released water in the Left Canal.

Investment and Infrastructure for Water Management

The state has invested Rs 4,192 crore on the Left Canal infrastructure, with additional plans for aqueducts and siphons across key rivers like Tandava, Varaha, and Sarada, as well as the Yeleru Canal. This construction is meant to enhance water delivery systems in the area, providing assured irrigation to crops over vast regions.

Officials briefing the Chief Minister indicated that 23.44 TMC of water has been earmarked for various purposes, including industrial, drinking, and irrigation needs in both Visakhapatnam and Anakapalli districts. This development aims to facilitate the irrigation of sectors that comprise 1.48 lakh acres under the Pushkara ayacut and additional provisions for other ayacuts within the region.

Moreover, the government plans to fill the Yeleru Canal and 110 tanks using the Godavari water, which is expected to significantly stabilise agricultural production across the district. Naidu mentioned that overcoming barriers like the Eastern Ghats and numerous rivers demonstrates the persistent efforts to channel these crucial resources effectively.

Future Prospects for North Andhra

During a public meeting following the ceremony, Chief Minister Naidu asserted that the arrival of Godavari waters would transform barren lands into fertile agricultural fields. He highlighted the continuous journey of these waters to Anakapalli, emphasising their significance to local prosperity.

Naidu announced plans to further expand the Left Main Canal, linking it to the North Andhra Sujala Sravanthi project. He outlined intentions to complete 12 major projects in North Andhra, with an estimated investment of Rs 3,200 crore, and 36 additional projects over the next three years at an investment of Rs 35,000 crore.

According to the Chief Minister, a total of Rs 25,000 crore has been allocated for the irrigation sector in the past two years alone. Naidu reiterated his commitment to integrating rivers across the state, including the Godavari and Krishna, and to provide water to all related initiatives.

Predicting substantial economic growth, Naidu invoked plans for Visakhapatnam to become a hub for information technology and an AI city. He mentioned ongoing developments, including large data centres and enhanced connectivity that will further engage the region’s economic landscape.

Long or Short, get news the way you like. No ads. No redirections. Download Newspin and Stay Alert, The CSR Journal Mobile app, for fast, crisp, clean updates!

App Store –  https://apps.apple.com/in/app/newspin/id6746449540 

Google Play Store – https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.inventifweb.newspin&pcampaignid=web_share