AP govt for check dams, tanks in drought-hit areas

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu today said his government was planning to construct check-dams and small percolation tanks in areas hit by drought.
"Earlier government concentrated only on completion of projects but never gave attention to canals as result of which all projects have become useless. Steps are being taken to complete ongoing projects like 'Galeru-Nagiri, Handri-Neeva etc," the chief minister said addressing a gathering at Obanapalli village in Kadapa district.
He announced setting up of a Food Park at Railway Kodur and a textile park in the district, besides a mega-tourism project linking all important places in the district.

He said all major projects having a storage capacity of 82.94 TMCFt will be "filled up" with river water in the district.
The CM said that process of loan waiver will be completed by November 20. "The government will bear the interest burden on DWRCA loans," he added.
Naidu criticised erstwhile rulers of the district for "factionalism and ruining development of the district."
"They have also looted natural resources like iron ore, red sanders and earned huge profit from irrigation works," the chief minister said without taking names.
He also warned red sander smugglers of dire consequences if the illegal activity is not stopped.