Neglect leaves PRLIS tunnels clogged

Leaking passages, poor maintenance could destabilise local hydrology, warn experts

- D CHANDRA BHASKAR RAO

Nearly two years of neglect have pushed the Palamuru-Rangareddy Lift Irrigation Scheme (PRLIS) into a precarious state, with clogged tunnels and submerged structures and equipment.

Experts warn that leaking passages and poor maintenance could destabilise local hydrology and endanger fragile ecosystems. Without urgent intervention, this flagship project risks becoming another unfulfilled promise in Telangana’s troubled irrigation history.

Just two days ago, Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka assured that the Congress government would expedite PRLIS completion, stressing timely fund releases to fast-track progress. The aim is to transform the drought-hit Mahabubnagar into fertile zones, turning Palamuru into the “rice bowl” of India. Irrigation Minister N Uttam Kumar Reddy too echoed this commitment, setting an ambitious deadline of December 2027, with critical works to be fast-tracked over the next six months.