Hyderabad: The Kaleshwaram Inquiry Commission, chaired by Justice PC Ghosh, raised critical questions about delays and structural issues at the Annaram Barrage during a hearing on Saturday. The commission scrutinized representatives from Afcons, the construction company responsible for the barrage, focusing on agreements, delays, and subsequent challenges.
Justice PC Ghosh emphasized that it is the construction companies’ responsibility to address all aspects before initiating large-scale projects. He also questioned the lack of proper oversight in government tenders, calling for accountability.
Afcons representatives Naga Mallikarjuna Rao and Shekhar Das explained that the project faced delays due to changes in the barrage’s location and late handover of land. Temporary access to the site required leasing land from private individuals. They further stated that an EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) agreement could have ensured better management, including surveys.
The commission questioned why the barrage, designed to last 100 years, faced issues within its first year. Afcons explained that seepage problems were promptly addressed through grouting. Additionally, they consulted the Irrigation Department and recommended protection measures similar to those used at Prakasam and Dhavaleswaram barrages. However, the department did not act on these recommendations.
The inquiry highlights the need for stricter project oversight and accountability to prevent such lapses in the future.
