Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan assured that the Andhra Pradesh government will work towards a permanent solution for the long-standing problems faced by coconut farmers in Konaseema. Interacting with farmers affected by the Shankaraguppam and Kesanapalli drain issue in Rajolu constituency, he promised that within 45 days a clear roadmap would be prepared, followed by an action plan after Sankranti.
Pawan Kalyan said coconut is an integral part of Indian culture and protecting farmers who depend on it is the government’s responsibility. He stated that no coconut farmer should suffer or be forced onto the streets because of preventable issues. He personally visited damaged coconut plantations where seawater had flooded through the Shankaraguppam drain and inspected fields filled with weakened and dying trees. Officials briefed him on the extent of damage, the spread of the drain, and the areas that have been encroached upon.
He interacted with residents from 13 affected villages and listened to their concerns. He noted that the drain issue has worsened over the years due to negligence and encroachments. According to irrigation experts, including B.C. Rosayya, the original 50-metre drain has shrunk to as little as three metres in several places during the previous government’s tenure, with no desilting done for five years. He described the situation as “human-made destruction,” saying the ignored drain allowed seawater to enter plantations, damage biodiversity, and threaten the coastal belt.
Pawan Kalyan said that nearly ₹4,000 crore is needed for modernization of drains and irrigation canals in the erstwhile East Godavari district, and ₹20.62 crore is required urgently for the Shankaraguppam drain alone. He criticized the previous government for ignoring basic maintenance and pushing the state into financial distress, while the current coalition government is trying to rebuild systems, ensure development, maintain welfare schemes, clear dues, and improve infrastructure.
Calling Konaseema a “green treasure,” he expressed concern over the drying coconut trees that once ensured steady income for farmers. Each acre of coconut plantation typically provides around ₹2 lakh per year, he said, stressing the need to protect this livelihood. He assured that a scientific plan will be developed on whether the damaged trees can be revived, how long new plantations may take to yield crops, and what temporary support can be provided to farmers in the meantime.
The Deputy CM instructed officials to thoroughly study the Rosayya report and prepare a comprehensive report within two weeks. Another review meeting will be held in the second week of December. A special committee will also be formed to examine the root causes and propose long-term solutions, which will then be submitted to the Chief Minister.
Pawan Kalyan said the issue will also be taken to the central government. With one lakh acres under coconut cultivation in Konaseema, he said the need for a full-fledged Coconut Board office in the region will be highlighted. He added that concerns about ONGC activities contributing to the issue would be examined with the help of the region’s Members of Parliament.
He conveyed Constitution Day greetings, saying the Constitution ensures rights, security, and livelihood opportunities for every citizen.
During his tour, Pawan Kalyan received a grand welcome from locals across multiple villages. People showered flowers, lit harathis, and lined the roads with petitions and placards, hoping to bring their issues to his notice. Throughout the journey, he acknowledged every group, collected representations, and assured support to the farmers of Konaseema.