Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan held a crucial review meeting at his Mangalagiri camp office, addressing cyclone-hit areas, agricultural losses, and development projects in the Avanigadda constituency of Krishna district. The meeting was attended by Machilipatnam MP Vallabhaneni Balashouri, MLA Mandali Buddha Prasad, district collector D.K. Balaji, senior officials from irrigation, R&B, and agriculture departments.
Focus on Cyclone Relief and Tenant Farmers
Pawan Kalyan expressed serious concern over the devastation caused by the recent Montha cyclone, which heavily damaged crops in coastal villages. He emphasized that both landowners and tenant farmers must be fairly compensated. Officials informed that Krishna district alone has over 60,000 tenant farmers holding CCRC cards, with more yet to be registered. The Deputy CM directed authorities to ensure that every affected farmer is identified and assisted promptly.
Negligence of Previous Government Costs ₹50 Crore
Highlighting the failure of the previous administration, Pawan Kalyan revealed that seven outfall sluices connecting local canals to the sea in the Avanigadda region were neglected for years. Due to lack of maintenance, thousands of acres in Nagayalanka and Koduru mandals are repeatedly flooded by seawater. The Deputy CM stated that ₹50 crore now needs to be spent to restore the damaged sluices — an unnecessary burden caused by “administrative negligence.”
“These structures were left to corrode without even basic greasing or inspection. Every high tide brings seawater into fertile farmlands. This neglect must end,” he said, promising that funds from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) will be allocated to rebuild them. He also confirmed he would personally visit Delhi to ensure swift central approval for the reconstruction plans.
Bridge Project to Connect Delta Islands
Pawan Kalyan announced that the long-pending dream of Etimoga–Edurumondi High-Level Bridge across the Krishna River will soon become a reality. The bridge, aimed at connecting the island villages of Edurumondi, will directly benefit over 20,000 residents who currently depend on boats for daily transport.
The project already has ₹109 crore sanctioned under NABARD funding. Due to realignment and cost escalation, an additional ₹60 crore will be required. Pawan Kalyan assured that the state government will allocate the remaining amount through Sasky Scheme and complete the bridge within the scheduled time frame.
Speed Up Forest Clearance for Rural Roads
The Deputy CM also directed officials to expedite forest clearance procedures for road construction between Edurumondi and Gollamanda villages. The Panchayati Raj Department has sanctioned ₹13.88 crore for the project, and tenders are already finalized. However, work has been delayed due to portions of land falling under forest jurisdiction. He instructed forest officials and the district collector to jointly conduct on-site inspections and resolve the issue swiftly.
Addressing Religious Sentiment and Forest Fees
Pawan Kalyan also mentioned that the Forest Department currently charges a small entry fee for pilgrims visiting Hamsaladeevi Sagar Sangam — the sacred confluence where the Krishna River meets the Bay of Bengal. “While the fee amount is minimal, this is a sensitive issue for devotees,” he said, urging officials to explore alternate arrangements respecting public sentiment.
Strong Message on Accountability and Efficiency
During the meeting, Pawan Kalyan reiterated his commitment to transparent governance and efficient disaster response. “The time for negligence is over. Every rupee must go to rebuilding the lives of farmers and strengthening our delta infrastructure,” he concluded.
The review meeting was attended by R&B Special Chief Secretary Krishna Babu, Panchayati Raj Commissioner Krishna Teja, and senior engineers from the Irrigation and Agriculture Departments.
Conclusion
The Deputy CM’s announcement marks a major step toward strengthening coastal infrastructure and improving the lives of farmers and island residents. With new bridges, restored sluices, and upgraded roads, the Krishna Delta region is set for a transformation that could redefine connectivity and development across coastal Andhra Pradesh.
