Date:16/08/2007 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2007/08/16/stories/2007081654540500.htm

Andhra Pradesh

Steps afoot for modernisation of delta

Correspondent

Kakinada: The Godavari delta modernisation works, proposed with an estimated cost of Rs.1,627 crores, would be launched in April next and completed within four years, said Gollapalli Suryarao, Minister for Small-scale Industries here on Wednesday. Addressing the Independence Day celebrations function after unfurling the national flag at the police parade grounds, he said tenders for the works would be invited next month. As a part of the modernisation, the cement lining of canals, raising the height of major drains ands construction of new bridges and locks replacing the 100-year-old ones, would be taken up. Execution of works of all the irrigation projects taken up under ‘Jala Yagnam’ programme, including Pushkara lift irrigation scheme, Bhupathipalem reservoir, Venkatnagar pumping scheme and Surampalem reservoir project, was going on.