CM launches ₹459-cr high-level canal in AP

The CM of Andhra Pradesh has laid the foundations to build the second phase of Somasila high-level canal involving an investment of ₹459 crore. The government has set a three-year deadline to complete the second phase which is expected to provide irrigation water to about 50,000 acres and drinking water for 2.5 lakh people in Atmakur and Udayagiri areas. With works on the first phase of the Somasila project nearing completion, industries minister Mekapati Gautham Reddy exhorted the state administration to initiate the second phase works on a priority basis as the drought-hit region has been waiting for water for several decades. While the first phase is ready to provide irrigation water for 45,000 acres and drinking water for 2.5 lakh people, the second phase would turn the entire upland into canal-fed irrigation whereas the first phase of Somasila project would cater to the needs of Marripadu, Atmakur mandals in Atmakur.