Penna Barage, Nellore
The Penna River canal system includes both the Nellore Anicut system and the Nellore Tank, along with the Sangam Anicut system. The oldest reservoir in the Penna River system is the Nellore Tank, which originally sourced its water via a channel that diverted from the river near Mulumudi. This channel also served as a catchment to collect water from the Ludums, which originate near Aiyagaripalli, Podalakur, and surrounding areas.
In 1854-55, the Madras Government constructed the Nellore Anicut across the river to ensure a reliable water supply for the tanks in the Southern Delta, and also approved improvements to the Nellore Tank. After several earlier attempts, the current structure was designed by the renowned engineer Sir Arthur Cotton and completed in 1862-63. The anicut has since proven to be highly durable. Its crest stands 9.61 feet above the riverbed and 42.55 feet above sea level, with a total length of 2,040 feet. A new structure was constructed on 2021 the existing one named as Nellore Barrage.
The Nellore Barrage is constructed with 43 spillway gates and eight scour vents.
The Nellore Barrage is a significant water control structure located across the Penna River in the Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh, India. It plays an essential role in irrigation, water management, and flood control for the surrounding areas.
Here are some key aspects of the Nellore Barrage:

NELLORE BARRAGE
Function:
The primary purpose of the barrage is to provide a steady water supply for irrigation, supporting the agricultural activities in the region. Additionally, it helps regulate river flow and prevent flooding during heavy rainfall.
Construction:
Built to enhance water storage and distribution, the barrage includes 43 spillway gates to manage water flow and eight scour vents to clear silt and debris, ensuring the structure’s smooth operation.
Location:
Situated in the town of Nellore, in the southeastern part of Andhra Pradesh, the barrage spans the Penna River. Its location is strategically chosen to manage water distribution efficiently.
Design:
The barrage is designed to handle significant water volumes, especially during the monsoon season when river levels can rise. The spillway gates allow excess water to flow out, protecting the structure and nearby areas from damage.
Agricultural Importance:
The barrage is crucial for the agricultural economy of the region, ensuring a reliable water supply for irrigation during dry spells. It supports the cultivation of crops such as paddy, groundnut, and cotton.
Flood Management:
Alongside irrigation, the barrage serves as a flood management system, controlling the water flow to minimize the risk of flooding in the surrounding areas.
Maintenance:
To maintain its effectiveness, the barrage requires regular inspection and upkeep, particularly of the spillway gates and scour vents, to ensure it operates efficiently and to prevent any buildup of sediment or structural issues.
In summary, the Nellore Barrage is vital to the local economy, helping to manage water resources in the Penna River and providing essential irrigation and flood control for the surrounding agricultural areas.