In response to the Andhra Pradesh government’s release of a white paper on the Polavaram project, State Congress President YS Sharmila has strongly criticized the BJP, TDP, and YSRCP, holding them responsible for the project’s setbacks. She lamented that despite the late former Chief Minister YSR’s vision to complete Polavaram and irrigate 28 lakh acres of land, the project has been marred by political interference over the years. Sharmila accused the Modi government of neglecting its responsibility to grant national status and provide funds, which were promised during the state’s bifurcation.
Highlighting the financial implications, Sharmila pointed out discrepancies in project costs, alleging that under the Congress regime, Polavaram’s estimated cost was significantly lower compared to the inflated costs under the current administration’s reverse tendering approach. She criticized Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu for delays during his tenure and challenged the current government to expedite the project completion within the next five years. Sharmila urged the Congress party to demand full funding from the Centre to relieve the state of financial burdens associated with Polavaram’s construction.
