The Telangana Assembly recently witnessed intense discussions over the PC Ghose Commission report. The report investigated irregularities in the design and construction of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project. The project, costing over ₹1.10 lakh crore, aimed to lift water from the Godavari River and supply it across Telangana for irrigation and drinking purposes. The debate saw sharp exchanges between Chief Minister A Revanth Reddy and BRS leader T Harish Rao.
Background of the Kaleshwaram Project
The project was initiated to enhance water supply in Telangana. It lifts water from the Godavari and distributes it to multiple reservoirs. The initial estimated cost was ₹38,500 crore. However, the cost escalated to ₹71,436 crore and finally to ₹1.10 lakh crore by 2022. The project is one of the largest irrigation schemes in India.
PC Ghose Commission and Its Findings
The Congress government appointed the PC Ghose Commission to probe alleged irregularities. The 650-page report accused the previous BRS government, construction firms, and officials of embezzlement and poor project management. It brought into light violations in tendering and approvals. The Commission recommended strict action against those responsible.
Key Allegations and Government Response
The report stated tenders were called before Central Water Commission approval. The project’s site was shifted from Tummidihatti to Medigadda without clear justification. The government incurred ₹87,449 crore in off-budget borrowings, increasing debt burden. Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy promised a follow-up action plan after Assembly discussions.
Political Reactions and Controversies
BRS leader T Harish Rao called the probe politically motivated. He claimed procedural lapses by the Commission and said notices were not served to key persons. Harish Rao approached the High Court to suspend the report and prevent its tabling in Assembly. The debate revealed deep political divides over accountability and governance.
Financial Implications of the Project
The massive cost overruns led to financial stress on the Telangana government. Off-budget borrowings worth ₹87,449 crore increased the state’s debt servicing obligations. The project’s financial management and transparency became central issues in the Assembly debate.
Impact on Telangana’s Irrigation and Water Supply
Despite controversies, the project aims to improve irrigation and drinking water availability. It is critical for agriculture and rural livelihoods in Telangana. Delays and irregularities have affected the project’s timely completion and operational efficiency.
Questions for UPSC:
- Point out the challenges in implementing large-scale irrigation projects in India and estimate their impact on state finances.
- Critically analyse the role of commissions of inquiry in ensuring transparency and accountability in public projects with suitable examples.
- Underline the significance of water resource management in India and how inter-state river projects influence regional politics.
- What are the implications of off-budget borrowings for state governments? How do they affect fiscal discipline and governance?
