Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project
The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) in Telangana has recently come under intense scrutiny. Several structural issues and administrative decisions have sparked debates about its execution and management. A judicial inquiry has been conducted to investigate the allegations. The project, once hailed as a lifeline for Telangana, now faces questions regarding its foundation, planning, and governance.
Project Overview
- Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is a large-scale multi-stage irrigation project on the Godavari River in Kaleshwaram, Bhupalpally district, Telangana.
- It utilises over 1,800 km of canal network to irrigate 16 lakh acres across 13 districts.
- The project aims to store 240 thousand million cubic feet (tmc ft) of water, allocating 169 tmc ft for irrigation, 30 tmc ft for Hyderabad’s drinking water, 16 tmc ft for industrial use, and 10 tmc ft for rural drinking water.
- Initially estimated at ₹71,000 crore, costs have escalated beyond ₹1 lakh crore.
Location Shift from Tummidihatti to Medigadda
Originally, the project’s barrage was planned at Tummidihatti. Despite receiving hydrological clearance, the site was shifted to Medigadda citing water unavailability. However, Central Water Commission data indicated over 200 tmc ft availability at Tummidihatti. The shift led to criticism, especially since about 30% of the Pranahita Chevella Sujala Sravanti (PCSS) project works at Tummidihatti were already complete with an ₹11,000 crore investment.
Structural Issues and Damages
The Sundilla barrage’s piers sank within three years of inauguration. Annaram and Sundilla barrages developed cracks after storing large water volumes, defying technical advice. Investigations revealed barrages were built on permeable foundations, unsuitable for heavy water inflows. These faults raised concerns about engineering standards and project safety.
Judicial Inquiry and Its Findings
A one-man judicial commission led by Justice Pinaki Chandra Ghose conducted a 15-month inquiry. Over 110 witnesses, including former CM and ministers, were examined. The commission’s report, submitted in July 2025, brought into light lapses in site selection, construction quality, and administrative procedures. The Telangana government plans to discuss the findings in the legislature and seek political consensus on future steps.
Reactions and Defences
The Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) defended the project, stating it had approvals from statutory bodies including the Central Water Commission and was ratified by the Assembly. Supporters argue that the project complies with procedures, though full documentation remains undisclosed. The debate continues over accountability and the project’s future.
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