Anakapalli, Sept. 2 -- Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu welcomed Godavari waters by offering Jala harathi at Payakaraopeta cross regulator today.

After sprinkling the sacred water on his head, the Chief Minister unveiled a commemorative plaque.

A large number of people, farmers and women gathered on both sides of the canal to welcome the Godavari waters with flowers. Women performed traditional hararti. As the Godavari waters surged forward, the Chief Minister offered a Sashtanga Namaskaram to the river.

Farmers expressed their happiness over the arrival of Godavari waters in North Andhra and thanked the Chief Minister.

The government has planned to provide irrigation water to 2.87 lakh acres and drinking water to 9.23 ...