ABSTRACT
The Polavaram project concerns a multipurpose mega-dam, under construction since 2004, on the river Godavari. In this chapter, we juxtapose the narrative of the state of Andhra Pradesh, the main actor pushing the project, with the counter-narratives of the neighbouring states, civil society and the inhabitants of the submergence zone. The state of Andhra Pradesh presents mega-dams, including the Polavaram one, as highly beneficial engineering solutions and proposes land-for-land as innovative social policy. Counter-narratives question the dam project itself, seen as an outdated paradigm, as well as its supposed benefits in terms of irrigation. The compensation envisioned for the adivasi communities in the submergence zone is also regarded as an empty promise. Yet, the Polavaram dam project appears to be carved in stone: the narrative of the state of Andhra Pradesh negates all change and acts as a wall against a plurality of counter-narratives.
