Penna Barrage

Penna Barrage, also known as Penna Anicut, is a barrage across the Penna River near Chinthareddypalem on the eastern outskirts of Nellore city in Andhra Pradesh. Originally constructed as an anicut in 1858 during British administration to irrigate the Nellore delta, it was later modernized into a gated barrage. It regulates river water for agriculture and drinking supply and serves as a popular local viewpoint for river scenery and sunsets.

Visitors can expect a long gated barrage structure across the wide Penna River with upstream reservoir and downstream river views. The site offers open river vistas, embankments and approach roads suitable for walking, photography and sunset viewing. Water flow varies seasonally, with fuller views after monsoon. The surroundings are flat agricultural plains with the city nearby. There are no major built attractions on the barrage itself; the experience is primarily sightseeing and leisure by the riverside.

The structure was originally built as Penna Anicut in 1858 during British administration to provide irrigation to the Penna delta in Nellore district. It was part of the mid-19th century anicut system developed for agriculture in coastal Andhra. The anicut was later upgraded and modernized into a gated barrage to improve water regulation, flood control and water supply for irrigation and drinking purposes.

The barrage is a vital water resource for agriculture in SPSR Nellore district and supports paddy and other delta crops. It is a well-known local landmark and informal recreational area for residents of Nellore for evening visits, river viewing and photography, especially when water is released.