Sluices suffer from poor quality of execution

Pithapuram: The quality of execution of works on the sluices of Yeleru canal is very poor and many of them have developed cracks immediately after construction.

In response to the long-standing demand of Yeleru ayacut farmers, the State government had decided to modernize the sluices and regulators.Local legislator NVSN Varma had also launched several agitations seeking modernization of the sluices. Finally, the government had given the green signal.

A total of 90 sluices including 20 major ones were planned. The works were subsequently given to sub-contractors by the main contractor.

The sub-contractor had completed the construction of 40 sluices, including six major sluices. Poor quality of cement and building material used in the construction is believed to be the reason for the cracks.

At Narsingapuram and Lakshminarasapuram, the platform on which the sluice was constructed had developed cracks. Farmers allege that the cement pipes used for the purpose are not of good quality.

The Yeleru canal ayacut farmers question as to how the sluices would be able to withstand the impact of floods in future.

There are no signs of irrigation authorities supervising the works worth Rs 1.50 crore. Farmers are incensed at work inspectors not showing up at the work site.

But they say they are helpless as higher officials are reportedly unavailable to even lodge a complaint regarding the quality of works.

When contacted, Yeleru assistant engineer Appa Rao denied lack of supervision on execution of works and clarified that the works executed were of good quality.