Akhanda Godavari Project Foundation Laid in Andhra Pradesh

In a move towards addressing long-term water security in southern India, Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has laid the foundation stone for the ambitious Akhanda Godavari Project in Andhra Pradesh. The project, when completed, is expected to benefit over three crore people across multiple districts by providing a reliable source of drinking water.

Addressing a meeting on the occasion, Shekhawat said the Akhanda Godavari project, under the Special Assistance for Capital Investment (SACI) scheme of the central government, would help turn Rajamahendravaram into a spiritual and cultural capital.

Speaking at the event held in Kovvur, West Godavari, Shekhawat called the initiative a “milestone in India’s water mission.” 

“The central government has allocated Rs 95 crore for this initiative and aims to revive the historical Havelock Bridge as a multi-functional tourist hub,” he said.

“Under Swadesh Darshan 2.0, destinations like Araku, Borra Caves, Lambasingi, and Suryalanka Beach are being developed for eco and adventure tourism,” he said, adding that by 2035, the government was planning to attract 3.5 million tourists annually through the Akhanda Godavari project

The project aims to bring together various segments of the Godavari river system to create an integrated network capable of meeting the region’s growing water demands.

The Akhanda Godavari Project will interlink the Godavari’s distributaries, enabling the transfer and storage of water across districts such as East Godavari, West Godavari, Konaseema, and Eluru. The comprehensive plan includes the construction of pipelines, reservoirs, and purification units to ensure safe and sustainable drinking water.

Shekhawat emphasised that the project reflects Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of ‘Har Ghar Jal’, ensuring tap water connections to every rural household under the Jal Jeevan Mission. Once operational, the scheme will improve both water availability and public health in the region.

He also praised Andhra Pradesh’s efforts in water conservation and praised the cooperation between the central and state governments. The minister added that the central government remains committed to supporting similar large-scale infrastructure initiatives that benefit people directly.

Officials expect the Akhanda Godavari Project to become a model for water management and interlinking of rivers in other parts of the country. It aligns with India’s broader goals of water sustainability, rural development, and improved quality of life.

The project has generated optimism across the Godavari delta region, with locals hopeful for improved access to clean drinking water and long-term environmental benefits.