Tadepalli, Feb 28: YSRCP State Coordinator Sajjala Ramakrishna Reddy called for transforming the Rayalaseema Lift Irrigation Project into a full-fledged people’s movement and announced a crucial meeting in Kadapa tomorrow to chart the future course of action. He held a teleconference with key leaders from Rayalaseema, Prakasam and Nellore districts to review ongoing mobilisation efforts and discuss the strategy to intensify the agitation.
Sajjala stated that the party’s preparatory programmes on the Rayalaseema Lift have received an encouraging public response. He recalled that the project was initiated during YS Jagan Mohan Reddy’s tenure as Chief Minister as a long-term safeguard for irrigation and drinking water needs across Rayalaseema, Prakasam and Nellore districts. However, he alleged that after the coalition government assumed office, the works were stalled. He described the project as a lifeline not only for agriculture but also for drinking water security and future generations.
He criticized the present government for failing to secure required central approvals despite being part of the ruling alliance at the Centre, and accused it of not exerting sufficient pressure to protect state interests. Sajjala emphasized the need to create widespread awareness so that the issue is discussed in every household. He urged party cadres to conduct village-level and district-level meetings, round-table discussions and press conferences to build momentum and convert the demand into a mass movement. He noted that press conferences have already been held across Rayalaseema districts and said the Kadapa meeting would be a decisive step forward.
He called upon leaders from Rayalaseema, Prakasam and Nellore to attend the Kadapa round-table meeting without fail and deliberate comprehensively on the future action plan. Intellectuals, civil society groups and farmers’ associations would also be involved to broaden the movement. Sajjala reiterated that YSRCP has consistently fought for Rayalaseema’s development and interests and will continue to lead from the front. He added that party president YS Jagan Mohan Reddy is closely monitoring the issue and has directed every leader to treat it as a top priority.
Kadapa district president Ravindranath Reddy said the upcoming meeting would serve as a milestone in safeguarding Rayalaseema’s water rights and warned that without immediate action, both irrigation and drinking water shortages could worsen. He called for a large-scale agitation to compel the government to respond and protect the region’s rightful interests.
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