Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly Speaker Ch. Ayyanna Patrudu and Home Minister V. Anitha on Sunday released water from the Thandava reservoir to the ayacut after offering special prayers, including the traditional Jala Harathi.

Addressing the gathering, Mr. Ayyanna Patrudu said the Thandava project is a vital source of irrigation for agricultural lands in Narsipatnam and Payakaraopeta mandals, as well as parts of Kakinada district. This year, 51,465 acres will receive water — 32,689 acres in Anakapalli district and 18,776 acres in Kakinada district.

Accusing the previous YSRCP government of neglect, he pointed out that even minor repairs, such as fixing a gate at a cost of just ₹7 lakh, had been ignored. In contrast, with support from Ms. Anitha, development works worth ₹2.10 crore have been executed using disaster relief funds. In addition, ₹4.20 crore has been sanctioned for 57 works, 30 of which have already been completed.

Mr. Ayyanna Patrudu assured farmers that the reservoir holds enough water to meet irrigation needs for the next 60 days. He also announced that the Roads & Buildings Department will soon begin construction of a road from Nathavaram to the reservoir at an estimated cost of ₹8 crore.

Ms. Anitha noted that thousands of farmers depend on the Thandava ayacut, adding that since the NDA came to power, the reservoir’s smooth functioning reflects the government’s commitment to farmers’ welfare.