No proposal for new underground drainage system in Tirupati

Vijayawada: Municipal administration minister P Narayana informed the assembly that there is no proposal to construct a completely new underground drainage (UGD) system in Tirupati. He assured, however, that the govt will strengthen and upgrade the existing network based on financial feasibility.Tirupati, with a resident population of 4.5 lakh and a floating population of up to one lakh daily, generates nearly 54.5 million litres of liquid waste per day. The minister said this necessitates a robust drainage system to safeguard sanitation and public health.UGD coverage is required across 408.4 km in the temple city. At present, 284.3 km is in place, leaving 125 km yet to be taken up. Additionally, 60 km of the old network requires replacement due to ageing infrastructure.Replacing old lines and laying new pipelines in uncovered areas would cost ₹152.45 crore. In the first phase, tenders will be invited in March to replace 7.5 km of old lines. For the remaining stretches, the state will seek central support to mobilise funds and proceed in phases.Presenting a broader picture, Narayana said Andhra Pradesh requires UGD systems over 21,170 km, at an estimated cost of ₹24,000 crore. Currently, 3,334 km is operational, while works covering another 2,860 km are underway. He emphasised that completing UGD networks is essential to achieve ‘Swachh Andhra' and assured expansion in line with the state's financial position.