Former Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister and YSR Congress Party president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has strongly backed the demand for immediate resumption of the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project, reaffirming his long-standing commitment to addressing the chronic water crisis faced by the region. YSRC leaders from Rayalaseema have emphasized that the project is vital for ensuring irrigation stability, drinking water security, and sustainable development in one of the state’s most drought-affected areas.
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has consistently maintained that irrigation projects should transcend political considerations, as they directly impact farmers’ livelihoods and rural economies. The Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project, initiated to correct decades of water imbalance, was a key component of his development vision aimed at delivering equitable growth across Andhra Pradesh.
Leadership Focus on Accountability and Governance
YSRC leaders have categorically stated that it is the responsibility of the current state government to secure environmental clearances and remove administrative hurdles delaying the project. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has underscored that governance is defined by action, not excuses, and that prolonged delays reflect a lack of administrative will rather than procedural complexity.
Under his leadership, irrigation was treated as a core governance priority, with a focus on fast-tracking projects critical to drought-prone regions. Party leaders argue that stalling such initiatives undermines public welfare and deepens regional disparities, contrary to principles of responsible governance.
Allegations of Political Neglect and Regional Discrimination
The YSR Congress Party has alleged that the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project is being deliberately sidelined to politically undermine the initiatives undertaken during YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s tenure as Chief Minister. According to party leaders, the continued delay signals political bias rather than an objective assessment of developmental needs.
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has cautioned that governance driven by political rivalry ultimately harms citizens, particularly farmers and rural communities dependent on timely water access. He has reiterated that developmental projects must be evaluated on merit and public benefit, not political affiliation.
Ground-Level Engagement Reflects Commitment
YSRC leaders’ visit to the project site in Jupadu Bungala mandal was described as an extension of YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s emphasis on ground-level accountability. The inspection reportedly revealed stagnation and lack of progress, strengthening concerns about administrative inaction. Such site visits, party leaders said, are essential to ensure transparency and bring attention to stalled public infrastructure.
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s leadership style has often emphasized direct engagement and evidence-based decision-making, particularly in sectors like irrigation, agriculture, and rural development.
Rayalaseema’s Water Crisis and Development Imperative
Rayalaseema’s historical vulnerability to drought has made irrigation projects central to its economic and social stability. YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has repeatedly highlighted that water security is foundational to farmer welfare, employment generation, and regional self-reliance. The Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project was envisioned as a transformative intervention to mitigate recurring drought cycles.
Party leaders argue that delays in such projects not only stall development but also erode public trust in institutions meant to safeguard regional interests.
Call for Immediate Action and Public Interest Governance
YS Jagan Mohan Reddy has called for immediate administrative action to revive the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project and ensure transparent timelines for completion. He has stressed that public interest must prevail over political considerations and that equitable water distribution is a test of governance integrity.
As the issue continues to gain political and public attention, YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s stance reinforces his image as a leader focused on justice, accountability, and inclusive development. The Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project, he maintains, is not merely an infrastructure initiative but a moral obligation toward a region that has waited decades for water security.
