Andhra Pradesh Kicks Off Amaravati Capital City Project

VIJAYAWADA: Andhra Pradesh has commenced work on the Rs 65,000 crore Amaravati capital city project, aiming to establish a 'people's capital' on the banks of the River Krishna. The project seeks to attract skilled migrants, industries, professionals, and businesses globally.

Following a five-year pause, the Andhra Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, has revived the Amaravati project after assuming power last year. The city is envisioned as a world-class urban center inspired by cities like Amsterdam, Singapore, and Tokyo.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has been invited to the ground-breaking ceremony. The Amaravati Master Plan, designed by Foster and Partners, outlines comprehensive development across 217.23 square kilometers between Vijayawada and Guntur.

The city aims to be an economic hub, projecting 1.5 million jobs, a population of 3.5 million, and a GDP of USD 35 billion by 2050. Phase-1 of the project, estimated at Rs 64,910 crore, is slated for completion within three years.

The Government of India has committed Rs 15,000 crore in financial assistance and facilitated support from the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank, totaling USD 800 million each. HUDCO has also signed an agreement for a Rs 11,000 crore loan.

Nara Lokesh, a Minister in the Andhra government, expressed delight at the project's recommencement. Phase-1 focuses on basic infrastructure, including housing, healthcare, education, sanitation, and transportation.

The project includes a Government City, Justice City, and Finance City, alongside Education, Health, Sports, Electronics, Media, and Tourism sectors. Sustainable development is emphasized through green and blue infrastructure.

Educational institutions like VIT, SRM, and Amrita Universities are already operational. BITS Pilani plans to start in 2026, and XLRI will soon establish its campus. AIIMS at Mangalagiri is also functional. Government buildings, including the Legislative Assembly, High Court, and Secretariat, are expected to be completed within 24 to 36 months.