AP Launches 100-Day Water Conservation Drive from April 6

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has announced a 100-day special programme on water conservation titled “Jala Bhadrata – Responsibility of Irrigation Associations” , to be implemented from April 6 to July 14 across Andhra Pradesh.

In an official statement released on Sunday, the Chief Minister said the initiative aims to transform water conservation into a social movement , urging farmers, irrigation associations, and gram panchayats to actively participate. The programme will be formally launched on Monday from Tadipatri in Anantapur district .

The plan focuses on protection and conservation of water resources through coordinated efforts among various departments. Stressing that water security is crucial for the state’s development , Naidu said the government is working towards making Andhra Pradesh drought-free , with a strong emphasis on improving groundwater levels . The target is to maintain groundwater levels within 6 metres before summer and within 3 metres after the monsoon .

Departments including Water Resources, Agriculture, Panchayati Raj, Forest, and Animal Husbandry have been directed to work in coordination. Irrigation associations are expected to play a key role in implementing the programme.

The 100-day action plan will be executed in four phases :

• April 6–15: Identification of works

• April 16–20: Administrative approvals

• April 21–July 9: Execution of works

• July 10–14: Submission of completion reports

The government has identified 5,697 villages facing groundwater issues. Measures such as filling tanks and enhancing water storage capacity aim to increase groundwater levels by at least 1.5 metres .

The Chief Minister also directed the use of satellite imagery and hydrological mapping for scientific planning. Initiatives like water budgeting and water audits will be undertaken to ensure efficient utilisation of resources.

Drawing inspiration from the successful “Project Jaladhara” in Annamayya district , the government plans to interlink streams and rivulets to improve water retention. The overall objective is to strengthen water security across the state .