HYDERABAD

Minister for Irrigation and Civil Supplies N. Uttam Kumar Reddy on Tuesday rebutted the criticism of BRS leader T. Harish Rao on the operation of pumps of Devadula Lift Irrigation Scheme and asserted that the government would operate nine pumps of the project round-the-clock from Tuesday-Wednesday night to maximise water lifting from the Godavari.

He said the government was focused on ensuring water security and protecting farmers and not engaging in political rhetoric. “As promised during our recent review of the Devadula project, nine pumping units will be operated at full capacity from tonight. They will function round-the-clock to maximise lifting from the Godavari and fill all the 22 online reservoirs of the project serving nine districts,” he said.

“Every operational decision is being guided by technical requirements and the need to safeguard water availability during the current monsoon uncertainty. Our responsibility is to protect farmers and ensure drinking water security”, Mr. Uttam Kumar Reddy said.

He alleged that Mr. Harish Rao was attempting to divert public attention from the failures of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. He said those who had taken crucial engineering and administrative decisions that ultimately led to the structural crisis at Medigadda should first answer for their own actions before commenting on Devadula.

Published - July 21, 2026 09:22 pm IST