The National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) criticized the agencies involved in the Kaleshwaram project for their poor construction and management of barrages. The NDSA expert committee, led by Chandrashekhar Iyer, called upon representatives from L&T, Navayuga, and Afcon company.
L&T was blamed for the damage to piers at the Medigadda barrage, according to a report submitted by the Vigilance Committee to the State government. Navayuga Engineering and Afcons were responsible for the development of Annaram and Sundilla barrages, which developed cracks leading to a halt in water supply and storage.
During their visit to Hyderabad, the committee questioned the agencies about their management of the barrages and the government’s role in ensuring structure safety. They specifically asked L&T about their reluctance to repair the damaged piers at Medigadda.
Iyer personally interacted with L&T officials to understand why they were not fulfilling their repair obligations. The agency claimed that since the project was initiated by the previous government, they were not obligated to undertake repairs.
The committee conducted a detailed inspection of the barrages and identified areas of concern during their initial visit on March 7 and 8. They gathered information about the foundations from the agency and inquired about defect liability obligations.
Irrigation officials also provided additional information about L&T’s reluctance to carry out repairs and the government’s unwillingness to resolve the issue.