A long-awaited water lifeline is finally taking shape in the drought-prone uplands of Markapur, with the state government accelerating works on the Veligonda irrigation system aimed at ending decades of water scarcity in the region.
During a visit to the constituency, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated feeder canal lining works under the Veligonda Project, a critical component designed to ensure uninterrupted flow of water to parched farmlands. The canal works alone involve an investment of ₹456 crore and are expected to significantly reduce seepage losses and improve delivery efficiency.
Officials said the project, once fully completed, will irrigate nearly 4.35 lakh acres, providing reliable water supply to multiple constituencies across Prakasam, Kadapa and Nellore regions. Areas that have historically depended on erratic rainfall and groundwater are set to receive assured surface water for the first time.
Reviewing progress at the site, the Chief Minister stressed that water security is central to regional development, particularly in backward and drought-affected zones. He noted that irrigation projects such as Veligonda are not merely engineering works but long-term solutions that determine farmers’ incomes, cropping patterns and rural stability.
The Veligonda Project, conceived to tap surplus Krishna waters through tunnels and canals, has seen uneven progress over the years. According to officials, construction stalled for several years, delaying benefits to farmers. In the past 20 months, however, works have gained momentum, with over ₹540 crore spent to push the project forward.
The total cost of the project is estimated at ₹9,081 crore. Of this, more than ₹5,400 crore has already been spent on construction, land acquisition and rehabilitation. The government plans to complete the remaining works in phases, requiring an additional ₹2,540 crore.
Once operational, the project will supply irrigation water to Giddalur, Erragondapalem, Kanigiri and surrounding areas, while also improving groundwater recharge and drinking water availability. Officials believe the project will permanently alter the water profile of* Markapur district *, turning a chronically dry region into a stable agricultural zone.
With canal lining now underway, farmers say the promise of dependable water no longer feels distant but firmly within reach.
