Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project

The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is indeed the world's biggest lift irrigation project. It is located in the southern Indian state of Telangana. The project aims to harness the water resources of the Godavari River and provide irrigation facilities to several drought-prone districts in the state.

Godavari River

The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project is built on the Godavari River. The Godavari is one of the longest rivers in India and is often referred to as the "Dakshina Ganga" or the "Ganges of the South." It originates in the Western Ghats in Maharashtra and flows through Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and ultimately reaches the Bay of Bengal.

Salient Features of the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project

1. Water Diversion: The project involves diverting water from the Godavari River to several reservoirs through a system of canals, tunnels, and lifts. The water is then distributed to various agriculture fields for irrigation purposes.

2. Lifts and Pumps: The project includes the construction of several lift stations and pump houses to lift the water from the river to higher elevations. These lifts and pumps are designed to transport the water over long distances and steep gradients.

3. Reservoirs: The project involves the construction of multiple reservoirs to store and regulate the flow of water. These reservoirs act as storage facilities during the monsoon season and ensure a steady supply of water throughout the year.

4. Irrigation Canals: The project includes the construction of extensive canal networks to distribute the water to various agricultural regions. These canals ensure that the water reaches the fields and farms efficiently and effectively.

5. Power Generation: The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project also incorporates the generation of hydroelectric power. The flow of water from higher elevations is utilized to generate electricity, which helps in meeting the energy requirements of the project.

6. Benefits: The project aims to provide irrigation facilities to nearly 45 lakh acres of farmland in the drought-prone regions of Telangana. It also aims to meet the drinking water needs of several cities and towns along the Godavari River.

Overall, the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project on the Godavari River is a significant endeavor to address the water scarcity issues in Telangana and provide sustainable irrigation facilities to the region.

B) Godavari river in Telangana, Andra Pradesh