Hyderabad, Dec. 15: The irrigation minister, Mr Ponnala Laxmaiah, on Monday caught the Telugu Desam napping when he pointed out that the total expenditure on the irrigation sector in the current financial year was only Rs 6,500 crore whereas the TD had alleged that an amount of Rs 10,000 crore had already changed hands.
"How can that be possible?" questioned the minister. He strongly objected to the ‘irresponsible’ criticism levelled by the TD. Speaking to mediapersons at the Secretariat, the minister said increase of area under irrigation from 12 lakh acres to 16.5 lakh acres in Pranahita-Chevella lift project and inclusion of Hyderabad water supply scheme had resulted in escalation of the project cost. "The Opposition party levelled allegations without going into the details. It seems they have some problems in thinking properly," the minister said.
He challenged the TD to clarify its stand on irrigation projects and wanted to know whether they wanted to continue with the construction of the projects. "The man who ruled for nine long years gave 10 per cent mobilisation advance to contractors. He is now objecting when the Congress limited this amount to five per cent. He should be ashamed of his behaviour," Mr Ponnala said while referring to Mr Chandrababu Naidu.
Taking strong exception to the allegations made by the TD leader, Mr K. Yerrannaidu, that the Chief Minister is collecting Rs 2 crore per hour, Mr Ponnala asked the TD leader to come out with proof or extend an apology. "Like demons who spoiled yagas, the TD leaders is trying to scuttle the Jalayagnam. But they will not succeed," the minister said.
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