Five Infrastructure Projects The Newly Elected Government In Andhra Pradesh Should Prioritise

The recent electoral triumph of the alliance comprising N Chandrababu Naidu’s Telugu Desam Party (TDP), the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), and the Jana Sena Party (JSP) has kindled optimism for economic growth and development in Andhra Pradesh.

With 164 out of 175 assembly seats secured, the new government has an opportunity to prioritise strategic infrastructure projects to boost growth in Andhra Pradesh.

Here are five key projects that should be focused on:

1. Polavaram Lift Irrigation Project

The Polavaram Irrigation Project stands as a cornerstone for the agricultural and economic revitalisation of Andhra Pradesh. Located on the Godavari River, this multipurpose project is designed to irrigate 4,36,825 hectares, generate 960 MW of hydropower, provide drinking water to 28.50 lakh people across 611 villages.

Initiated with a bhoomi pooja by Y S Rajasekhara Reddy in 2004, the Polavaram project has experienced decades of delays due to various administrative, financial, and environmental challenges.

Accelerating the completion of this project is imperative for the new government to realise its potential benefits fully.

2. Amaravati as a world-class capital city

The development of Amaravati as a world-class capital city is essential for positioning Andhra Pradesh as a modern and efficient administrative hub. The government should accelerate the construction of administrative buildings, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities.

Emphasising sustainable urban planning with green spaces, smart technology integration, and efficient public transport will make Amaravati a beacon of development, attracting investments and skilled professionals to the region.

3. Bhogapuram Greenfield International Airport

The Bhogapuram International Airport, situated approximately 50 km from Visakhapatnam in Vizianagaram district, is poised to become a vital node in the state’s transport infrastructure. With an estimated cost of Rs 4,592 crore, this smart airport project emphasises environmental sustainability and regional social development. Once operational, it will handle six million passengers annually and significantly boost regional connectivity, tourism, and economic activities.

The 36-month timeline for completion makes it an immediate priority for the new government.

4. Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC)

The VCIC is a key component of India’s first coastal corridor, the East Coast Economic Corridor (ECEC), spanning approximately 800 km across nine districts in Andhra Pradesh. This industrial corridor aims to connect India with the economies of ASEAN and East Asia, aligning with the Act East Policy and Make in India initiative. The development of industrial nodes at Visakhapatnam, Machilipatnam, Donakonda, and Yerpedu-Srikalahasti is vital for boosting manufacturing, enhancing export capabilities, and creating job opportunities.

5. Development of Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada Metro

Andhra Pradesh currently has no cities with metro rail systems, making the development of high-capacity Metro Rail Systems in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada a critical infrastructure project. 

Developing metros shows the government’s commitment to modernising infrastructure, improving urban living standards, and addressing critical transportation challenges.