The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has approved a Rs 126-crore pipeline project to channel water from the Handri-Neeva branch canal to the Kalyani Dam in Tirupati district.

Designed to operate through both lift and gravity systems, the project aims to provide stable irrigation for 1,154 acres and ensure consistent drinking water supply to Tirupati and Tirumala. According to project details, the system will carry 432.32 TMC ft. of water through a network of tanks — Moolapalli, Kondreddy Kandriga, Kaniti Madugu, Nagapatla, and Venkatarayani, before reaching Kalyani Dam, which will store 400 TMC ft. for urban and temple needs.

Chandragiri MLA Pulivarthi Nani, who initiated the proposal, confirmed that work will begin soon after administrative and technical approvals. The project is expected to guarantee irrigation for about 120 days annually, strengthening Chandragiri Mandal’s agricultural and water security base.