Key Points
- Andhra Pradesh plans to use a gravity canal system for flood control in Amaravati.
- The CRDA aims to integrate Dutch-inspired water management techniques.
- The World Bank will fund Rs 15,000 crore for Amaravati’s development, based on flood prevention implementation.
- Construction of gravity canal reservoirs is underway in key locations like Kondaveeti and Palavagu.
- Fresh tenders will be invited for all Amaravati projects by January, replacing older, unfinished tenders.
Looma News
Amaravati, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, is looking to the Netherlands’ gravity canal system to help control flooding. The Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) announced new plans on Monday to improve the city’s infrastructure and manage flood risks. One of the key measures is adopting a gravity-based water canal system, inspired by a model that has been successfully used in the Netherlands for centuries.
The CRDA’s announcement came after a meeting with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development, P Narayana, confirmed that the World Bank will provide Rs 15,000 crore for Amaravati’s development. However, this funding depends on the successful and timely implementation of flood control measures, including the gravity canal system.
Minister Narayana pointed out that the severe flooding in Vijayawada in September highlighted the urgent need for effective flood protection. As part of the plan, reservoirs are being built along a 217 km stretch around Amaravati. These reservoirs, including those in Kondaveeti and Palavagu, will help manage water flow and protect lower-lying areas from flooding. Narayana stressed that finalizing these flood control measures is key to securing the World Bank funding and meeting the city’s development goals.
The gravity canal system works by using natural gravity to move water from higher ground to lower ground, without the need for pumps or external power. This system not only helps with irrigation but also directs excess water away from populated areas, reducing flood risks. Along with flood control, the CRDA is also working on improving Amaravati’s transportation by building new inner and outer ring roads, making the city more resilient.
In addition, the CRDA has announced plans to issue new tenders for all Amaravati projects by January 2024. These tenders will replace older ones from between 2014 and 2019, many of which were left incomplete under the previous government. Narayana noted that about Rs 35,000 crore has already been invested in various infrastructure projects, such as buildings for the high court, legislature, residential complexes, and other important structures, although some payments have been delayed.
