Minister for Irrigation and Civil Supplies N Uttam Reddy has given top priority to the completion of the SLBC tunnel project by forming a dedicated division exclusively for its execution and monitoring.

The focus is on accelerating the project's progress, with the recently trapped tunnel boring machine (TBM) successfully dismantled and removed. Work on rail track maintenance and repairs within the tunnel is also underway. Regarding the Kaleshwaram project, the Minister reviewed the progress of the Medigadda, Annaram, and Sundilla barrages, with the Central Water and Power Research Station (CWPRS) providing a report and work schedule. Testing at Medigadda barrage began this week, with two teams actively exploring borehole locations for the remaining barrages.

The Minister emphasised the need to adhere to a strict timeline for rehabilitation designs, directing that they should be completed within one month. These efforts aim to ensure timely project completion, boosting the state's water supply infrastructure.