Fate of Journalist Colony in vijayawadaTwo decades of negligenceUnpaved roads, lack of drainage system and proper water pipelines bane of the colony since inceptionseelam arozie

It has been more than 20 years since journalists were allotted land in the Payakapuram area of Vijayawada in 2003. The decision, made by the then Chandrababu Naidu-led State government, was welcomed by the journalist community. However, despite the passing of many years, successive governments have failed to develop the promised infrastructure in the colony.
Former MLA Malladi Vishnu visited the colony a few times, but no progress was made. After the change in government, the Journalist Colony Welfare Association (JCWA) approached Vijayawada-Central MLA Bonda Umamaheswara Rao, requesting basic facilities such as proper roads, drainage systems, and water pipelines. The MLA assured them that work would begin in October 2024, once funds are released for development. However, as of now, there has been no visible improvement in the colony.
During the rainy season, even a small drizzle causes serious problems for residents. The unpaved roads turn into slush, making it difficult for people to travel. With only one temporary BT road and a small extension, the residents struggle to access their homes. Additionally, the colony has only one 2-inch pipeline in some areas, which is insufficient for drinking water supply. The area meant for a park has become marshy due to stagnant rainwater.
The residents are urging the government to address their concerns, especially as the State government has started a mission to lay new roads and repair old ones. They are requesting the government to fulfil its promise of providing pucca roads, reliable drinking water, and a proper drainage system. The colony’s park area, which remains underdeveloped, should also be looked into.
M. Raghunath, vice-president of the Journalist Colony Welfare Association, said that residents have been facing many hardships due to the lack of basic infrastructure. He has appealed to Vijayawada MP Kesineni Sivanath (Chinni) and MLA Bonda Umamaheswara Rao to visit the colony and understand the problems firsthand. He also requested immediate action to improve the living conditions of the residents in line with the government’s mission of development and welfare.
_______________