CPI demands Vigilance probe into boats ramming barrage

CPI national secretary Dr K. Narayana has called for a Vigilance investigation into the incident involving sand boats that collided with the gates of the Prakasam Barrage during the recent Krishna River floods. He has urged the Vigilance and Enforcement Department to probe and uncover any potential criminal networks behind the alleged sabotage.
Dr Narayana, accompanied by CPI State secretary K. Ramakrishna and other party leaders, visited flood-affected areas across the combined Krishna and West Godavari districts, starting from Kolleru Lake. They inspected illegal encroachments around Kolleru and later examined the Enikepadu Under Tunnel (UT) and the Prakasam Barrage.
Addressing the media, Dr Narayana stressed the importance of a comprehensive investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision of the boats with the Prakasam Barrage gates. He called for stringent measures against those found responsible and dismissed speculation regarding the potential damage to the barrage gates, questioning the credibility of such claims. Dr Narayana noted that significant damage to the gates would indicate serious issues with the barrage’s overall condition and advised against sensationalist reporting.
Furthermore, he pointed out that the Enikepadu UT, built during British rule, was inadequately designed to manage flood discharge effectively. He emphasised the necessity to increase its height and remove accumulated silt to enhance its floodwater management capacity.
Other CPI leaders, including Muppalla Nageswara Rao, G. Obulesu, Akkineni Vanaja, Ravula Venkaiah, and P. Jamalaiah, joined him on the visit.