Uncertainty over Andhra Pradesh’s Capital city Amaravati is passe. Capping years of halted progress under the previous YSRCP government, the TDP-led NDA government headed by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has reignited hope by committing to finish the construction of Amaravati as per the original master plan.
In an exclusive interview with C. Pradeep Kumar of The Pioneer, Dr. Katamaneni Bhaskar, the APCRDA Commissioner, provides an in-depth look into the ambitious plans for completing the Amaravati capital project. Dr. Bhaskar elaborates on the meticulous efforts being made to restart and revamp the project, addressing the significant challenges posed by past disruptions. He discusses the detailed steps being taken to ensure the structural integrity of the partially completed buildings, the re-engagement of consultants, and the outreach to investors to restore confidence and secure funding. This interview offers a comprehensive overview of the government’s steadfast commitment to making Amaravati a functional and thriving capital at the earliest. Excerpts:
With the recent developments, what are the immediate steps being taken for the Amaravati capital project?
The TDP-led NDA has revived hopes by deciding to complete the structures left halfway in Amaravati. Under Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, the State government has promptly resumed work from Day 1, aligning with the aspirations of the people. The Chief Minister visited the Amaravati region to inspect the halted structures and directed us to prioritize resuming construction immediately.
What is the approach towards completing the Amaravati capital as per the original plans?
We are committed to continuing the construction of Amaravati as per the original Master Plan without any deviations. Revamping this project is a herculean task, requiring meticulous planning to avoid further delays. Tenders have been called for jungle clearance, and it will take about one-and-a-half months to clear once awarded.
How are you addressing the challenges posed by the previous government’s actions?
The capital project was initially an Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract during the previous TDP government, which was later cancelled by the YSRCP government. We are now working on revised estimates to complete the incomplete structures, procure necessary funds, and follow due procedures. This process is tedious and time-consuming.
What measures are being taken to ensure the quality and strength of the already-constructed structures?
We are constituting an Engineering Committee to assess the strength and other aspects of the structures at various stages of construction. IIT Chennai has been entrusted with ensuring the foundation strength of iconic buildings, while IIT Hyderabad will oversee the strength of residential complexes for MLAs, officers, and employees. We had to reappoint consultants as 47 of the previous ones had left, and there was also a staff shortage in CRDA.
Can you provide an update on the current status of the structures and the plan moving forward?
The existing structures are at different completion stages—some are 80% complete, others 75%, and a few at 50%, with some having only the foundations laid. We plan to first complete the structures in the finishing stages so they can be occupied and used. Simultaneously, we are prioritising the construction of internal roads.
Q: How is the government engaging with investors to ensure the project’s financial viability?
A: The State government is in talks with both old and new investors to invest in Amaravati. Some investors had a bitter experience in the last five years, but we are working to rebuild their confidence. We are also engaging with the Singapore consortium to attract investments. I hope for the earliest possible completion of the Amaravati capital.
