The project is intended to provide water for irrigation, drinking, and power generation. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has issued instructions to all officials to expedite the work.

The Polavaram Irrigation Project, situated in Andhra Pradesh, focuses on utilising the waters of the Godavari River to meet the region’s water needs. Its primary objectives include irrigation, hydropower generation, and flood control.

At the core of the project is the Polavaram Dam, which upon completion will be among the largest dams in India and feature the world’s largest flood discharge spillway. This project is India's first large river-linking endeavour through gravity, connecting the Godavari and Krishna Rivers.

The reservoir created by the dam is anticipated to have significant storage capacity, supporting irrigation of extensive agricultural areas and reducing flood impact in the Godavari Delta. In addition, the project will generate 960 MW of hydroelectric power, which will contribute to regional development.

A distinguishing feature of the Polavaram project is its unconventional design: the spillway is located on the right side, while the power plant is on the left. This contrasts with typical projects where powerhouses are usually connected directly to spillways, highlighting the project's innovative approach to infrastructure.

The project also integrates power generation as a vital component during floods. Furthermore, water from the power plant will be supplied to the delta for agricultural use during non-flood periods.