Displaced villagers facing submergence due to the Veligonda Project demanded that the government provide full compensation, R&R (Relief and Rehabilitation) benefits, and at least six months’ time to vacate their homes. As the project’s water release trial run has been scheduled for August 22, 2026, the villagers have urged the government to address their grievances before they vacate the villages.

Though the government announced that the funds under R&R package have already been released and deposited directly into the beneficiaries’ accounts, many displaced families claimed that they have not yet received the amounts. CPM leader Daggupati Somaiah said that more than two-third of the displaced households are still waiting for the R&R benefits.

Meanwhile, several people from Sunkesula—a village facing submergence due to the project—expressed ire over the delay. They blocked the officials, who had arrived to oversee the evacuation of houses, from entering the village. “There is no question of vacating the village until our issues are resolved and justice is served,” the residents told the officials.

On Thursday (August 13, 2026), Minister of Water Resources Nimmala Ramanaidu, along with Endowments Minister Anam Ramanarayana Reddy and Markapuram District Collector M. Vijaya Sunitha, conducted a high-level review meeting at Collectorate on the progress of the project work, the R&R package for the displaced, and the evacuation of the people from flooded villages.

Tension prevailed during the review meeting as a group of youths staged a protest, demanding permission to meet the Ministers. They objected to only ruling party leaders being allowed to attend the meeting and protested by raising slogans, insisting on participating in the discussions with the Ministers.

Markapuram Town CI Altaf Hussain intervened and spoke to the youth. The situation subsequently calmed down after youth representatives were allowed to meet with the Ministers for discussions. The youth expressed appreciation for the police intervention, which provided them the opportunity to bring their region’s issues to the Ministers’ attention.

Later addressing the media, Minister Ramanaidu said, “As part of the ₹900 crore R&R package for the displaced persons, ₹318 crore in funds has already been released by the government. The issues such as technical errors, mistakes in name entries, and complaints received through various committees will be addressed with 100% transparency via online processes, ensuring justice for every eligible family.”

Published - August 14, 2026 07:10 pm IST