Tourism sector will witness boom in next 5 yrs: Durgesh

Plans are underway to boost the tourism sector in Andhra Pradesh over the next five years, according to Minister for Tourism Kandula Durgesh. The Minister announced that the Godavari riverfront will be beautified in preparation for the upcoming Godavari Pushkarams.
On Sunday, the Minister inaugurated a floating restaurant at Bridge Lanka on the banks of the Godavari, run by the Aahwanam Kitchen agency. Congratulating the organizers, he expressed confidence that the unique experience of dining on the river would attract numerous tourists, calling it a memory to cherish.
In his speech, the Minister stated, “To enhance the region’s appeal as a tourist destination, infrastructure facilities will soon be developed along the banks of the Godavari near Havelock Bridge. Plans are in place to beautify the riverfront, islands, and surrounding plains in preparation for the Godavari Pushkarams.”
The Minister outlined goals to encourage tourists to spend two to three days at various attractions, utilizing the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. He proposed establishing a Tourism Circuit with an investment of ?1 lakh at key tourist spots, which would create employment opportunities.
He further shared that efforts are being made to develop eco, adventure, wellness, and temple tourism in collaboration with the Endowment, Forest, Medical, and Tourism departments.
“Despite Andhra Pradesh having more natural beauty than Kerala, it lags in tourism. We will focus on promoting the state’s scenic attractions to draw more tourists,” he said.
Durgesh criticized the previous YSRCP administration for its neglect of the tourism sector, lamenting that the industry had lost its vibrancy under their leadership.
Welcoming Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s proposal to grant “Industry” status to the tourism sector, the Minister expressed optimism that this move would attract substantial investments. He also highlighted the importance of building film studios and supporting Telugu film production within the state, pledging full support to the film industry.
State Tourism Executive Director (Operations) A Padmavati, General Manager Rajaram, MLAs Battula Balaramakrishna and Adireddy Sreenivas, and Aahwanam Kitchen representative Srinivas were present at the event.