Amaravati Development to be Completed in Two-and-a-Half Years: Minister P. Narayana

P. Narayana, the newly appointed Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development, announced on Sunday that works relating to the development of Amaravati as Andhra Pradesh’s capital will be completed within two-and-a-half years. This statement comes following the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) regaining power, along with its allies Jana Sena and BJP.

Resumption of Amaravati Development

Work on Amaravati had stalled in 2019 after the YSR Congress Party government proposed the creation of three state capitals. However, with the TDP’s return to power, Amaravati is set to be developed as the sole state capital, as originally planned.

After taking charge at the state Secretariat, Narayana stated that the development works in Amaravati would resume shortly. “We will do a review in 15 days and decide on a time-bound programme,” he said, emphasizing the commitment to the original master plan for Amaravati’s development.

Three-Phase Development Plan

The development of Amaravati is estimated to cost Rs. 1 lakh crore, with the first phase having been initiated by the previous TDP government at a cost of Rs. 48,000 crore. Narayana recalled that tenders were issued to provide basic amenities and construct residential quarters for ministers, secretaries, officials, and other employees. Payments amounting to Rs. 9,000 crore were made, and 90% of the works relating to residential blocks for ministers and officials were reportedly completed.

Designed with assistance from the Singapore government, Amaravati aims to be one of the world’s top five capitals. The design process involved visits to Singapore, China, Japan, Russia, and Malaysia. Land acquisition for the state capital was facilitated through a land pooling notification issued on January 1, 2015, and by February 28, farmers had handed over 34,000 acres of land without litigation.

Narayana’s Role and Experience

Narayana, having gained experience from his previous tenure, has been reappointed to oversee Municipal Administration and Urban Development by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.

Revival of Anna Canteens

In addition to Amaravati’s development, Narayana announced the reopening of 100 Anna canteens within the next 21 days. Following his assumption of office, he conducted a review meeting on Anna canteens and mentioned that the government is considering awarding the food supply work to the Akshaya Patra Foundation. The Foundation has expressed readiness to commence food supply within three weeks, continuing the service of providing meals for five rupees. The YSR Congress government had shut down these canteens after coming to power in 2019.

Conclusion

The TDP’s return to power marks a renewed focus on completing Amaravati’s development as Andhra Pradesh’s capital. With plans to resume work soon and the reopening of Anna canteens, the government aims to fulfill its promises to the public and ensure the successful implementation of its development agenda.