The Justice PC Ghose commission that was looking into alleged malpractices in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) has sent summons to former Telangana Chief Minister and BRS chief K Chandrasekhar Rao.
Notices have also been issued to ex-Irrigation Minister T Harish Rao and ex-Finance Minister Eatala Rajender. According to the schedule, KCR has been summoned for June 5, Harish Rao for June 6, and Eatala Rajender for June 9. They are given 15 days to confirm their presence for cross-examination.
The commission is investigating potential failures during the planning, design, construction, quality control, operation and maintenance of the barrages at Medigadda, Annaram and Sundilla under the KLIP. The investigation was initiated after there were collapses at piers in the Medigadda barrage and other locations had problems reported.
The single-member commission, led by former Lokpal of India and Supreme Court judge retired Justice PC Ghose, was formed in March 2024. The commission has gone through reports of the National Dam Safety Authority and the state vigilance department, both of which had indicated irregularities.
Some officials and engineers have been quoted as saying that crucial decisions were taken at the highest political level, necessitating the commission to request an explanation from senior leaders who were part of the implementation of the project and major policy changes.
What is Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project?
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is among India’s biggest multi-stage lift irrigation schemes. Designed to lift water from the Godavari River, it will supply irrigation, drinking water, and industrial water supply to Telangana. The project comprises various barrages and pump houses, with key components at Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla. It has been criticized for cost overruns, engineering malfunctions, and mismanagement charges.
Conclusion
The Kaleshwaram irrigation challenge stays a cornerstone of Telangana’s development strategy, however making sure its integrity is paramount. The probe panel’s efforts, which includes thinking the former Chief Minister, highlight the commitment to uphold governance requirements and supply on guarantees to the nation’s farmers and residents. As the investigation unfolds, the public eagerly awaits clarity and justice regarding the task’s management.
