Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is set to launch a massive ₹152.95 crore infrastructure project on Monday, July 13, 2026, targeting the comprehensive modernization of the historic Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage at Dowleswaram. The safety initiative will be immediately followed by a high-level on-site inspection of the main dam works at the Polavaram Project.
The core objective of the ₹153 crore project is the full replacement of 117 aging crest gates whose operational lifespan has concluded. Following critical structural assessments and recommendations from the Central Water Commission (CWC), these old metal gates are being phased out to eliminate risks of catastrophic mechanical or structural failures during peak seasonal flood discharges.
Out of the barrage’s total 175 crest gates distributed across its 5.83 km expanse, 58 were previously updated in 2014–2015; this new phase will successfully replace the remaining 117 units along with upgrading 102 master electrical control panels and specialized roller chains.
The project holds vital socio-economic importance, as the Sir Arthur Cotton Barrage serves as the hydrological lifeline for the entire Godavari delta ecosystem. By securing the structural integrity of the barrage, the modernization works safeguard the water security and irrigation supply for over 10.13 lakh acres of prime agricultural cropland, protecting the livelihoods of millions of regional farmers.
Following the foundation ceremony at Dowleswaram and a brief interactive session with local farmers at Pichukalanka village, Chief Minister Naidu will fly directly to the Eluru district to inspect the critical earth-cum-rockfill (ECRF) dam gap-2 area and review engineering milestones at the Polavaram project site.
