Andhra Pradesh Water Resources Minister N. Rama Naidu said the state government has released 397 crore rupees for canal repairs, desilting and maintenance works ahead of the upcoming Kharif season. In a statement, the minister said the works would be completed before the irrigation season begins to ensure an uninterrupted water supply to agricultural lands.

Mr Naidu said the government has allocated 1,100 crore rupees for operation and maintenance works in the irrigation sector during the last 20 months. The minister said canal desilting, excavation, and removal of obstructions should be treated as priority works before the start of the season. He directed officials to closely monitor the progress of work to ensure they are completed on schedule.