Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced on Tuesday that the World Bank has agreed to extend a loan of Rs 15,000 crore to the state government for the construction of the capital city, Amaravati. Naidu stated that construction work is set to commence in December, marking a significant step in the state’s ambitious development plans.
In a press conference held in Amaravati, Naidu expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his support during their meeting on Monday. He highlighted that the central government has also agreed to release Rs 12,500 crore for the construction of the Polavaram irrigation project, which is expected to enhance agricultural productivity and irrigation facilities in the region.
The chief minister elaborated on additional investments in the state, announcing that Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd. is planning to establish a refinery with an estimated investment of Rs 85,000 crore. The company is currently conducting a feasibility study to determine the optimal location for the project. This investment is expected to generate employment opportunities and stimulate economic growth in the region.
Naidu also discussed his vision for the future of Andhra Pradesh, presenting the “Swarna Andhra Pradesh 2047” vision document. The plan aims to transform the state into a USD 2.5 trillion economy with a per capita income of USD 40,000 by the year 2047. This ambitious roadmap includes significant infrastructure development, economic reforms, and initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life for the residents of Andhra Pradesh.
“The World Bank has agreed to provide Rs 15,000 crore for the construction of Amaravati capital phase-1. The work will start in December. We will work in a time-bound manner,” Naidu stated confidently, indicating his administration’s commitment to completing the project efficiently and effectively.
When asked about ongoing negotiations with the neighboring state of Telangana, Naidu confirmed that both states are engaged in discussions to resolve pending issues stemming from the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014. He emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two states to address various challenges and enhance regional development.
Naidu also provided updates on other major infrastructure projects in the state. He announced that the upcoming Visakhapatnam International Airport, located at Bhogapuram, is expected to be operational by December next year. The GMR Group, which is executing the project, has been instructed to establish a Civil Aviation University in the vicinity to promote education and skill development in the aviation sector.
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During his meeting with the Prime Minister, Naidu highlighted the financial challenges faced by the state, attributing some of the difficulties to the previous government led by the Yuvajana Sramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP). He alleged that the YSRCP administration had failed to utilize central-sponsored schemes effectively, resulting in diverted funds and unaccounted expenditures. According to Naidu, the previous government did not provide utilization certificates for the central funds, which halted the flow of financial support from the union government.
As a consequence of the previous administration’s laxity, Naidu stated that 85 lakh tons of garbage had accumulated across the state, which his government has been actively working to address. The CM reiterated his administration’s commitment to cleanliness and sustainability, emphasizing the importance of proper waste management.
In addition to the Amaravati project, Naidu mentioned that the union government is currently evaluating various options for the survival of the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant, a critical asset for the state’s industrial landscape. He expressed hope that collaborative efforts would lead to positive outcomes for the plant and its workforce.
Naidu’s visit to the national capital included meetings with Prime Minister Modi and several cabinet members, including Nitin Gadkari and Hardeep Singh Puri. Through these discussions, he aims to secure further support for Andhra Pradesh’s development initiatives and strengthen ties with the central government.
