Hyderabad: Irrigation Minister Uttamakumar Reddy has announced that the government has allocated Rs 4,637 crores to complete the Srisailam Left Bank Canal (SLBC) tunnel by December 2026. The SLBC project, aimed at benefiting the fluoride-affected Nalgonda district, will provide irrigation for over 4 lakh acres and drinking water to 200 villages. The tunnel, spanning 44 km, will be the world’s largest irrigation tunnel, with 9.559 km of boring still to be completed. Jaypee Associates and its U.S. partners are importing equipment to expedite the project.
Once the tunnel is operational, it will eliminate the need for lifting water, saving Rs 200 crores annually. An additional Rs 440 crores will be invested in high-level canal lining to support agriculture.
During a review meeting, the minister also addressed irregularities in check dam constructions during the Bharasa period, citing a lack of proper planning. An investigation has been ordered to address these issues, and action will be taken against those responsible.
The government also sanctioned Rs 266.65 crores for the restoration of the Buniyadigani Canal in Yadadri Bhuvanagiri district to support canal infrastructure.
