Prakasam Barrage

Prakasam Barrage is a 1,223.5-metre barrage across the Krishna River connecting Vijayawada in NTR District with Mangalagiri in Guntur District, Andhra Pradesh. Originally built as an anicut by Sir Arthur Cotton in 1852-1855 and rebuilt as a barrage between 1954 and 1957, it is named after Tanguturi Prakasam. It serves irrigation, flood control and road connectivity and is a prominent city landmark and viewpoint.

Visitors can expect a long barrage structure across the wide Krishna River with a road running on top, panoramic river views, and illuminated views in the evening. The site offers pedestrian walkways and viewpoints on both riverbanks, boating operations downstream near Bhavani Island, and views of nearby hills and cityscape. The area is open and breezy, popular for photography, sunset viewing and leisurely walks.

The original anicut across the Krishna River was constructed between 1852 and 1855 by British engineer Sir Arthur Cotton to irrigate the Krishna delta. Due to damage and increased irrigation needs, a new barrage was constructed between 1954 and 1957 and inaugurated in 1957. It was named after Tanguturi Prakasam, the first Chief Minister of Andhra State, and significantly expanded irrigation capacity for Krishna and Guntur districts.

The barrage is regarded as the lifeline of the Krishna delta for agriculture and is an iconic symbol of Vijayawada. It is a popular recreational and social gathering place for residents and visitors, especially in the evenings, and forms a scenic backdrop for festivals and river-related activities on the Krishna River.