Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy has announced that the city of Visakhapatnam will be the state’s new capital, replacing Amaravati.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting with top officials and stakeholders, as part of the government’s plans to revamp the state’s administrative infrastructure.
Amaravati, which has been the de facto capital since 2015, will reportedly be downgraded to a district headquarters.
Visakhapatnam, on the other hand, is expected to undergo significant development and modernization, with a focus on creating a world-class administrative hub.
The move is seen as an effort to improve the city’s infrastructure and provide better governance to the state’s residents.
Background and Context
Amaravati has been plagued by issues related to its development, including inadequate housing, water, and road connectivity for officials.
Visakhapatnam, with its strategic location on the coast of Bay of Bengal, offers several advantages, including easy access to the sea and a well-developed infrastructure network.
The city is also home to several major industrial establishments, including those related to steel, petrochemicals, and shipbuilding.
Reaction from Stakeholders
Reacting to the announcement, opposition parties have expressed their reservations about the move, citing concerns over the impact on Amaravati residents and the disruption to administrative services.
Meanwhile, local businesses and civic leaders in Visakhapatnam are expected to welcome the news, seeing it as an opportunity for growth and development.
Next Steps
The government is expected to begin implementing its plans for the new capital, including a phased relocation of officials and infrastructure upgrades.
Key to this effort will be ensuring minimal disruption to the state’s functioning and providing adequate support to Amaravati residents during this transition period.
A date for the official transfer of power has not been announced yet but is expected to take place in phases over a period of time.
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