Udaipur, April 4 (Udaipur Kiran): The Chief Engineer of the Water Resources Department conducted an inspection of the ongoing works under Devas Phase III and IV projects, including the proposed tunnel between Devas III Dam and the previously constructed Akodda Dam.
Chief Engineer Devi Singh Beniwal reviewed the progress, quality, and timely execution of construction works during his visit. The inspection is part of a statewide drive to ensure time-bound and quality implementation of budget announcements.
During the visit, he stated that the Devas Phase III and IV projects will play a crucial role in meeting the long-term drinking water requirements of Udaipur city. The projects will also help maintain water levels in key lakes such as Pichola, Swaroop Sagar, Fateh Sagar, and associated water bodies, supporting tourism, environment, and ecological balance.
Under Devas Phase III, a dam with a capacity of 703 MCFT is proposed near Nathiyathal village in Gogunda tehsil. A 10.50 km long tunnel will be constructed to divert water to Devas II Akodda Dam, from where water will further flow to Pichola Lake. Under Devas Phase IV, a 390 MCFT capacity dam is proposed near Ambawa village, along with a 4.15 km tunnel connecting it to Devas III Dam.
Officials informed during the review that in-principle approval for forest land diversion has already been granted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, New Delhi, subject to certain conditions. Necessary steps are being taken to comply with these conditions.
The process of compensation distribution for private land acquisition has begun as per the award issued by the Land Acquisition Officer, Gogunda. A proposal for additional ex-gratia support for remaining affected families is currently under process.
The Chief Engineer directed that all affected families be provided with proper rehabilitation and basic facilities, ensuring no one is deprived of essential services. He also stressed strict adherence to safety standards at the worksite, availability of facilities for workers, regular quality checks of construction materials, and completion of the project within the stipulated timeline.
Superintending Engineer Manoj Jain, Assistant Engineer Kunal Meetwani, Junior Engineers Bharat Kumar and Jitendra Nagda, along with representatives of the executing agency, were present during the inspection.
Bhupendra Singh Chundawat is a seasoned technology journalist with over 22 years of experience in the media industry. He specializes in covering the global technology landscape, with a deep focus on manufacturing trends and the geopolitical impact on tech companies. Currently serving as the Editor at Udaipur Kiran, his insights are shaped by decades of hands-on reporting and editorial leadership in the fast-evolving world of technology.
