YSRCP Diverted ₹3,385.58 Crore of Polavaram Funds: TDP

### YSRCP Diverted ₹3,385.58 Crore of Polavaram Funds: TDP The controversy surrounding the Polavaram project in Andhra Pradesh has sparked significant debate. Former Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has made serious allegations against the YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) government, accusing them of diverting ₹3,385.58 crore from funds intended for the Polavaram project between 2019 and 2024. Naidu claims that despite the central government reimbursing ₹8,382.11 crore to the state during this period, only ₹4,996.53 crore was actually spent on the project. He further alleges that the progress of civil works on the project was minimal, with only a 3.84% advancement and practically no work done on the main canals. Naidu attributes this to what he describes as the YSRCP government's inefficient planning and unnecessary changes in the executing agency, leading to significant delays and uncertainty.

On the other hand, BJP leader Lanka Dinakar has disputed Naidu's claims, arguing that 72% of the project was completed before 2019 with central government cooperation. Dinakar accuses the YSRCP government of mismanagement and claims there were attempts to award contracts to companies with ties to YSRCP leaders. These conflicting statements highlight the political tensions and differing perspectives on the progress and management of the Polavaram project. The allegations and counter-allegations suggest a complex situation involving financial management, project execution, and political rivalries. # Polavaram Project and its Importance

The Polavaram project, often referred to as the lifeline of Andhra Pradesh, is a multi-purpose irrigation venture aimed at addressing the water needs of the state. It is designed to provide irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric power generation. The project's significance is underscored by its potential to transform the agrarian landscape of Andhra Pradesh, ensuring water security and boosting agricultural productivity. However, the recent allegations that YSRCP diverted ₹3,385.58 crore of Polavaram funds have cast a shadow over the project. The TDP claims that the funds, originally allocated for the timely completion of the Polavaram project, have been misappropriated, leading to delays and increased ## TDP's Allegations The TDP has been vocal about the alleged diversion of funds by the YSRCP. According to TDP leaders, the ₹3,385.58 crore intended for the Polavaram project has been siphoned off for other purposes. They argue that this diversion has not only delayed the project's completion but also compromised its quality. TDP spokespersons have highlighted several instances where they believe funds were redirected. They allege that the YSRCP government has used the Polavaram funds to finance populist schemes and other unrelated projects. This, they claim, has left the Polavaram project starved of necessary resources, hindering its progress. ### Impact on the Polavaram Project The alleged diversion of ₹3,385.58 crore of Polavaram funds by the YSRCP has raised serious concerns about the project's future. Delays in the project's completion could have a cascading effect on the state's water security and agricultural output. Farmers, who have been eagerly awaiting the project's benefits, are particularly worried about the prolonged delay. The TDP has also pointed out that the diversion of funds could lead to increased project costs. They argue that the longer the project takes to complete, the more expensive it will become, further burdening the state's finances. The allegations have sparked a debate about the efficient utilisation of public funds and the need for greater transparency in the project's execution. #### YSRCP's Response In response to the TDP's allegations, the YSRCP has vehemently denied any wrongdoing. YSRCP leaders have accused the TDP of spreading misinformation to tarnish the government's image. They argue that the funds have been utilised appropriately and that any delays in the project are due to technical and administrative challenges, not financial mismanagement. YSRCP officials have also pointed out that the Polavaram project was plagued with issues long before they came to power. They claim that the TDP, during its tenure, failed to address these issues effectively, leading to the current state of affairs. The YSRCP maintains that it is committed to completing the project and ensuring that the people of Andhra Pradesh reap its benefits. #### Political Ramifications The allegation that YSRCP diverted ₹3,385.58 crore of Polavaram funds has added fuel to the already heated political rivalry between the TDP and the YSRCP. The TDP has seized upon this issue to criticise the YSRCP government, accusing it of corruption and mismanagement. This has led to a war of words between the two parties, with each trying to gain the upper hand in the political landscape of Andhra Pradesh. The controversy has also caught the attention of the central government. Given the significance of the Polavaram project, there have been calls for a thorough investigation into the allegations. The TDP has demanded that an independent audit be conducted to ascertain the truth and hold those responsible accountable. ##### Public Sentiment The people of Andhra Pradesh are watching the developments closely. For many, the Polavaram project represents hope and progress. The alleged diversion of ₹3,385.58 crore of Polavaram funds by the YSRCP has led to frustration and anger among the populace. Farmers, in particular, feel betrayed as they have been counting on the project to solve their irrigation problems. Public sentiment is divided, with supporters of both parties taking to social media to express their views. While TDP supporters are demanding justice and accountability, YSRCP loyalists are defending their party and blaming the TDP for politicising the issue.

###### Conclusion The allegation that YSRCP diverted ₹3,385.58 crore of Polavaram funds is a serious one that warrants a thorough investigation. The Polavaram project is too important for the future of Andhra Pradesh to be mired in controversy and financial mismanagement. It is imperative that the truth be uncovered and those responsible, if any, be held accountable. As the political battle rages on, the focus should remain on completing the Polavaram project in a timely and efficient manner. The people of Andhra Pradesh deserve to see the benefits of this ambitious project without further delay. Only through transparency, accountability, and diligent execution can the true potential of the Polavaram project be realised.