Handri-Neeva, Irrigation canal system in Rayalaseema region, Andhra Pradesh, India.
Handri-Neeva is an irrigation canal system in the Rayalaseema region that extends roughly 550 kilometers across four districts. The network links several rivers and uses pump stations to move water to agricultural areas and villages.
The idea for this irrigation project emerged in the 19th century but took decades to develop into modern designs. Construction and completion happened during N. T. Rama Rao's administration in the 1980s and 1990s.
The canal network supplies water to hundreds of villages for growing grain, vegetables, and other crops that feed families and support local trade. Irrigation has allowed farmers to work their fields year-round and build more stable livelihoods.
The canal system draws water from the Krishna River and relies on dozens of pump stations to move water across hundreds of kilometers. Visitors can see various sections, though some areas are harder to reach, so checking with local guides beforehand is helpful.
The system contains hundreds of motor and pump units spread across multiple stations, making it one of the largest lift irrigation achievements in Asia. This engineering feat made it possible to bring water to areas that would otherwise be too dry.
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