The Polavaram Project in Andhra Pradesh stands as one of India’s most ambitious multi-purpose infrastructure - and MEIL Group is proud to be at the forefront of its execution. Designed to deliver drinking water, irrigation, and clean hydropower, this transformative project is redefining engineering benchmarks and strengthening the nation’s water security.
World’s Largest Spillway
At the heart of Polavaram lies the world’s largest spillway, a 1.18‑kilometre structure capable of handling an extraordinary 50 lakh cusecs of flood discharge. The spillway, fitted with 48 radial gates is engineered to safely pass a probable maximum flood of 1,41,435 cumecs. To achieve this, MEIL Group successfully executed a rare 6.6 km river diversion, routing the Godavari’s flow to the right bank a feat unparalleled in Indian dam engineering.
Earth-Cum-Rock Fill Dam
The main dam stretches 2.45 kilometres across the river, built as an earth-cum-rock fill (ECRF) structure. It is divided into three critical reaches:
Gap 1: ECRF section
Gap 2: The deepest, most geotechnically sensitive portion ensuring reservoir integrity
Gap 3: concrete gravity section connecting the alignment to the right abutment
Supporting this massive structure is a 1,372‑metre diaphragm wall, extending to depths of nearly 95 metres. Constructed with advanced plastic concrete in partnership with BAUER company, this wall forms an impermeable barrier, ensuring dam stability and seepage control.
Hydropower for a Greener Future
Polavaram also houses South India’s largest hydropower facility a 960 MW powerhouse equipped with twelve 80 MW vertical kaplan turbines. This clean energy hub will generate sustainable electricity, reinforcing India’s commitment to green growth.
Ecological Integration
Polavaram integrates an inbuilt fish ladder within its dam-spillway complex, safeguarding aquatic migration routes and reducing ecological impact. Alongside, three natural hillocks have been seamlessly incorporated into the dam’s geometry, providing natural abutments and structural stability.
Governance and Oversight
The Central Water Commission (CWC) and the Polavaram Project Authority (PPA) oversee technical approvals, interstate coordination, and dispute resolution. MEIL was entrusted with the project in November 2019, and since then, has been delivering engineering excellence at every stage.
A Multi-Dimensional Impact
The Polavaram Project is more than an engineering marvel it is a lifeline for millions. By supplying irrigation, drinking water, and renewable energy, it promises to transform agriculture, industry, and communities across Andhra Pradesh and beyond.