International experts hail pace, quality of Polavaram works

Vijayawada: Construction of the Polavaram Project received a major boost as an international panel of experts expressed satisfaction over the pace and quality of ongoing works, noting that activities are progressing systematically within the targeted timelines.The expert committee, constituted to review progress and offer technical guidance, began a three-day inspection at the project site on Wednesday. International expert Sean Hinchberger led the visit and conducted a detailed review of construction works on the first day.The delegation included Central Water Commission chief engineer Sarabjit Singh Bakshi, director Manish Rathore, deputy directors Ashwani Kumar Verma and Gaurav Tiwari, water resources department deputy commissioner Gaurav Singhai, and scientists from the Central Soil and Materials Research Station. Special chief secretary Sashibhushan Kumar accompanied the team.Senior officials associated with the project, including Polavaram Project Authority CEO Sanjeev Vohra and other engineers, also took part in the review.Superintending engineer R Ramachandra Rao gave a presentation on the status of diaphragm wall works and progress in key components. The experts noted that recommendations from previous reviews had been effectively implemented, helping accelerate construction without compromising engineering standards.They also highlighted that close coordination between central and state agencies, along with the executing firm, ensured timely approvals and smooth execution.Following the review, the team inspected the Gap-1 and Gap-2 sections of the earth-cum-rock fill (ECRF) dam from G-Hill. Representatives of the executing agency explained the construction methodology and ongoing progress.Meanwhile, the Central Soil and Materials Research Station team continued technical testing at the site, conducting multiple tests in the Gap-2 region. These focused on soil moisture, strength, and material quality to ensure durability and safety standards.Experts said continuous testing at every stage of construction is helping maintain required quality levels as dam works progress.Officials said the international team will continue inspections and technical reviews over the next two days.