Project incomplete for four decades, cost escalates 30 times.

Delays in land acquisition and initiation of work have marred irrigation projects across the state for years and led to cost escalation.

The Nandur Madhmeshwar project approved in 1978 to bring large tracts of land in Vaijapur and Gangapur talukas of the parched Aurangabad district has still not been completed. Initially, pegged at Rs 60 crore, the cost of the project involving construction of four dams has now jumped to a whopping Rs 1,821 crore.

The project was approved in 1978-79 with the objective of irrigating the two talukas in neighbouring Aurangabad district through the Express Canal from Nandur Madhmeshwar weir on Godavari river.

'The project included construction of four dams - Vaki, Bham, Bhavli and Mukane - in Igtapuri. Major portion of the water would be tapped at the Nandur Madhmeshwar weir and channelised through Express Channel to the two talukas for irrigation purposes,' senior official associated with the project said.

Over the years, major work of construction of Mukne dam, the largest among the four, along with Bhavli dam was completed. Also, work of major canals of water distribution in the two talukas was carried out and completed.

'Ever since it was planned, the work or land acquisition has been the biggest obstacle in the project. Though the issue of construction of the dam was resolved, the land acquisition issues are yet to be resolved,' the officer said.

TOI