Telangana’s Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project faces scrutiny as Justice PC Ghosh Commission summons former CM KCR, Harish Rao, and Etala Rajender over alleged irregularities, raising questions about financial mismanagement.
A major investigation is underway in Telangana. The Justice PC Ghosh Commission has summoned former Chief Minister K Chandrashekar Rao (KCR), former Irrigation Minister T Harish Rao, and BJP MP Etala Rajender. They must address allegations of irregularities in the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP). This multi-crore project has been plagued by structural failures and financial concerns. Let’s dive into the details.
Kaleshwaram Project: A Dream in Disarray
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project aimed to transform northern Telangana. Launched in June 2019 by the BRS government under KCR’s leadership, it sought to provide water for irrigation, industry, and households using the Godavari River. However, the project faced a major setback in October 2023 when piers at the Medigadda barrage collapsed. Telangana’s Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy called it “India’s biggest created disaster.” With costs soaring past Rs 1.81 lakh crore, the state now shoulders a Rs 16,000 crore annual loan repayment burden. This financial strain has sparked widespread concern.
Justice PC Ghosh Commission: Seeking Answers
The investigation began in March 2024, led by retired Supreme Court judge Pinaki Chandra Ghose. The Justice PC Ghosh Commission is examining the planning, design, construction, and maintenance of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages. Over 100 engineers and officials have been questioned. Many admitted to procedural errors or claimed they were unaware of key decisions. The commission’s term extends until July 31, 2025, reflecting the probe’s complexity. KCR will appear on June 5, Harish Rao on June 6, and Etala Rajender on June 9. Their roles—KCR as irrigation portfolio holder (2018–2023), Harish Rao as irrigation minister (2014–2018), and Rajender as finance minister—are under intense scrutiny.
Political Tensions Rise
The summons have fueled political debates. BRS leader K Kavitha, KCR’s daughter, dismissed the notices as a “political conspiracy” aimed at tarnishing her father’s legacy. She emphasized the project’s goal to support farmers. On the other hand, Minister Reddy accused the BRS of mismanagement, claiming they deviated from the original Dr BR Ambedkar Pranahita-Chevella plan. The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) reported structural failures across all three barrages and urged immediate repairs. Reddy vowed that the Congress government would ensure accountability through legal measures.
Impact on Telangana
The Kaleshwaram project’s failures have hit Telangana hard. The state’s finances are strained, and farmers’ livelihoods are at risk. The project’s collapse has also delayed other irrigation initiatives, damaging Telangana’s credibility. Despite these challenges, the Congress government has achieved record paddy production, showcasing effective governance. The commission’s findings, expected by July 2025, could reshape Telangana’s infrastructure policies.
What’s Next for Kaleshwaram?
The Justice PC Ghosh Commission is set to question key figures in this high-profile case. Will KCR, Harish Rao, and Etala Rajender provide clarity, or will legal hurdles slow the process? The Kaleshwaram probe remains a critical issue in Telangana. Stay updated as this investigation unfolds.#hydkhabar
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Aafia Ayman