Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital Set to Break Ground in Amaravati: A Major Boost for Healthcare in Andhra Pradesh
The much-awaited construction of the Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital in Amaravati is set to resume after years of delays. Originally announced in 2018-19, the project had been stalled due to administrative and logistical challenges, but recent developments indicate that work is finally moving forward. Nandamuri Balakrishna, a prominent Telugu Desam Party (TDP) leader and chairman of the hospital board, is playing a pivotal role in restarting the project, aiming to make Amaravati a key healthcare destination in India.
A Renewed Push for Progress
After a prolonged standstill following the initial groundbreaking ceremony, the project is gaining momentum. Nandamuri Balakrishna, also a Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from Hindupur, recently toured the site to evaluate its condition and address pending issues. A significant obstacle was the presence of high-tension power lines, which had hindered construction. Balakrishna has since brought this issue to the attention of the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA), which has committed to resolving it.
The state government had previously allocated 15 acres of land for the hospital in 2017-18, but political transitions and administrative hurdles led to a suspension of the project. Now, with renewed efforts, there is optimism that the construction will proceed without further interruptions.
A Three-Phase Development Plan
The hospital will be constructed in three phases. Initially, a 300-bed facility will be established, with plans to expand to 1,000 beds in the subsequent phases. The project is estimated to cost ₹300 crores, and once completed, it will serve not only Amaravati but the entire state of Andhra Pradesh. The hospital aims to replicate the success of its Hyderabad counterpart, the Basavatarakam Indo-American Cancer Hospital & Research Institute, which has been a leading center for cancer treatment since its establishment in 2000.
Amaravati’s Health City Vision
The Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital is part of Amaravati’s larger vision to become a "Health City," a dedicated zone for medical institutions and healthcare services. The state government’s master plan for Amaravati includes the allocation of approximately 6,000 acres for healthcare development, with institutions such as the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) already operational in the region. The hospital’s strategic location near the Mangalagiri National Highway will ensure easy accessibility for patients from across the state and neighboring regions.
Addressing Rising Cancer Cases
The decision to establish a world-class cancer hospital in Amaravati comes at a critical time when cancer rates are on the rise, particularly among women. The Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital aims to provide advanced cancer care to underserved areas, reducing the need for patients to travel to Hyderabad for treatment. By expanding its services to Amaravati, the hospital hopes to improve cancer care accessibility and outcomes across Andhra Pradesh.
A Vision for the Future
Nandamuri Balakrishna has taken personal responsibility for the success of this project, not only as a political leader but also as a passionate advocate for healthcare. His involvement reflects a broader commitment to enhancing healthcare infrastructure in Amaravati, positioning it as a model city for medical advancements. This initiative marks a significant step in Amaravati’s development as a leading healthcare destination and demonstrates a firm commitment to addressing the healthcare needs of the region.
As preparations for a new groundbreaking ceremony are underway, the Basavatarakam Cancer Hospital project stands as a beacon of hope for the future of healthcare in Amaravati and beyond.