Nandyal Secures ₹211 Crore for Massive Water and Sanitation Upgrades
Minority Welfare Minister N. Md. Farooq and District Collector Rajakumari Ganiya launched three major infrastructure projects under the AMRUT 2.0 scheme. These initiatives aim to resolve long-standing drinking water shortages and drainage issues in Nandyal.
Infrastructure Overhaul Under AMRUT 2.0
In a major push to modernize urban utilities, Minority Welfare Minister N. Md. Farooq and District Collector Rajakumari Ganiya initiated three priority infrastructure projects in Nandyal on Monday. These developments represent a combined investment of ₹211 crore, designed to stabilize the town's water security and waste management systems. The foundation stone was laid at the Head Water Works on Mahanandi Road for a 16 million litres per day (MLD) water treatment plant (WTP), a facility costing ₹38.75 crore.
Water Management and Environmental Protection
Collector Rajakumari Ganiya outlined the technical scope of the expansion, which includes two other major components beyond the WTP:
- A sewage treatment plant (STP) with a 32 MLD capacity, valued at ₹169.67 crore.
- A minor tank rejuvenation project requiring a ₹3.50 crore investment.
The STP aims to apply scientific processing to wastewater before discharge, providing a long-term remedy for local drainage problems. Simultaneously, the restoration of the small tank is expected to recharge groundwater levels in adjacent neighborhoods. The Collector confirmed that all three projects must meet strict quality standards and be delivered within the designated timeframe.
Addressing Scarcity and National Recognition
Minister Farooq noted that while the Velugodu reservoir currently holds 1.7 tmcft of water, the regional climate outlook requires caution. Citing the potential impact of El Nino, the Minister advised local farmers to pivot from water-intensive paddy to more resilient, low-water crops to mitigate future scarcity.
The Minister also highlighted that Nandyal recently gained national attention during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Mann Ki Baat. The Prime Minister specifically commended the district's district administration and Collector Rajakumari for their work in tank restoration and groundwater conservation. According to the Minister, this national recognition reflects the district's effective handling of water preservation measures even before these new projects break ground.
Source: The Hindu — News
