Date:19/12/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/12/19/stories/2006121904460400.htm

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

Tenders to be called for Dummugudem project

Special Correspondent

Bids will be finalised in February

HYDERABAD: The Government has decided to invite tenders for taking up works on Rajivsagar and Indirasagar canals under Dummugudem project in Khammam district.

The bids will be invited in January and finalised in February and the works will commence after that.

Chief Minister Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy made this announcement when he met CPI leaders and activists from the district who gathered here in large numbers to stage a `Chalo Chief Minister's residence' programme.

The activists who were planning to take out a procession to Dr. Reddy's residence observed restraint following assurance that Dr. Reddy would personally meet them.

The Chief Minister, who met them later, admitted that there was delay in commencement of work on Dummugudem project despite laying the foundation stone a year ago. However, the Government was committed to taking up the project that was aimed at bringing four lakh acres of new ayacut. The Government would take measures to pay compensation and rehabilitate people likely to be affected by the project and suitable packages were being prepared in this regard.

Polavaram height

Responding to the demand for reduction in the height of Polavaram project, he said the Government had initiated works after taking experts' views. However, he would consider deputing an expert committee to study the project again.