Gandikota pipeline develops cracks

Kadapa: Joints of 300 metre pipeline of the Rs 658-crore Gandikota Lift Irrigation Scheme which is to be launched shortly for diverting 7.5 tmcft from the Chitravathi Balancing Reservoir have developed cracks following the recent heavy rains. Cracks appeared in the L-4 pipeline, which has been completed to a distance of 8.2 km.

• Rs 658-crore lift irrigation scheme is to be launched shortly
• Cracks appeared due to non-laying of sand under the pipeline and the pipes getting rusted

The cracks developed due to non-laying of sand under the pipeline and the pipes getting rusted, in the absence of painting while arranging the pipes. Besides, no provision in the form of special structures has been made to allow the water to flow out. As a result, ten metres of water has entered the pumphouse, giving scope to doubt the quality of work.

A huge ditch has appeared on either side of the pumphouse. The issue has become a hot topic of discussion in Kadapa district, when officials and local leaders are making arrangements for the release of the Krishna water to the Pulivendula area.

The poor quality of work is being attributed to lack of supervision by the officials concerned, who failed to be present at the spot to monitor the progress of the work, for monetary consideration. The scheme work was taken up in the year 2007, with a capacity of 27 tmcft, with the intent to benefit farmers of Pulivendula, in view of the shortage of irrigation facilities, besides drinking water.