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Andhra CM Naidu Urges Centre: Fast-Track Vizag, Vijayawada Metro Projects

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu is pushing the central government to approve metro rail projects for Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. He met with key Union ministers in New Delhi to fast-track these crucial urban mobility solutions. Beyond the metros, Naidu also sought central funding to develop Rayalaseema into a major horticulture hub. His meetings also covered the progress of a major new refinery project in Nellore district.

Key Points: CM Naidu Seeks Central Approval for Vizag, Vijayawada Metro Rail

  • CM Naidu met Union Minister Khattar, seeking early clearance for revised metro DPRs
  • He argued metro rail is vital for reducing congestion in fast-growing urban centres
  • Naidu also discussed SASCI funding with FM Sitharaman for Rayalaseema horticulture hub
  • Progress on the BPCL Greenfield Refinery in Nellore was reviewed with Minister Puri
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Andhra CM Naidu urges Centre to approve Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada Metro Rail projects

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu meets Union Ministers, pressing for swift approval of metro rail projects in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada to boost urban mobility.

"I also requested funding support through SASCI, support for our plans to develop Rayalaseema as a horticulture hub... - Chandrababu Naidu"

New Delhi, December 19

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu on Friday met Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs Manohar Lal Khattar in New Delhi and sought the Centre's approval for the Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada Metro Rail Projects.

The Chief Minister informed the Union Minister that the revised Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for both metro systems have already been submitted to the Ministry for approval. He emphasised that early clearance is crucial for accelerating the development of two of Andhra Pradesh's fastest-growing urban centres.

CM Naidu explained that Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada require robust, modern and sustainable urban mobility solutions to keep pace with their expanding populations, growing economic activity and rising transportation demands. He highlighted that metro rail connectivity would significantly reduce congestion, enhance productivity, improve mobility for citizens, and support long-term economic growth.

The Chief Minister urged the Union Minister to prioritise and fast-track the approval process so that groundwork for both metro projects can begin at the earliest.

The Andhra Pradesh CM also met with Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and requested funding support through Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) to develop Rayalaseema as a horticulture hub.

"Delighted to meet the Hon'ble Union Finance Minister, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman Ji, in New Delhi today. With the support of Central initiatives such as Purvodaya, Andhra Pradesh has the potential to emerge as a major growth engine for eastern India. I also requested funding support through SASCI, support for our plans to develop Rayalaseema as a horticulture hub, and Central budgetary assistance to accelerate the long-term economic development of our state."

Chandrababu Naidu also met with the Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri and discussed the progress of the BPCL Greenfield Refinery Project in Nellore.

In a post on X, Chandrababu Naidu said, "It was a pleasure to meet the Hon'ble Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Shri Hardeep Singh Puri Ji, in New Delhi today to discuss the progress of the BPCL Greenfield Refinery Project in Nellore. I also extended an invitation to the Hon'ble Minister to grace the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the refinery."

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Shreya B
Good to see CM Naidu focusing on infrastructure. But I hope the DPRs are realistic and the projects don't become a financial burden on the state like in some other cities. Sustainable funding is key.
V
Vikram M
As someone from Vijayawada, we desperately need this. Auto rickshaw fares are skyrocketing and buses are always packed. A metro will provide a reliable and affordable option. Fingers crossed for speedy approvals!
A
Arjun K
The horticulture hub plan for Rayalaseema is also a brilliant move. AP has so much agricultural potential. Combining metro development in cities with rural agro-economy support is the balanced development we need.
P
Priya S
While metros are important, I hope the government also invests in last-mile connectivity and better bus services. A metro alone won't solve the problem. The entire public transport ecosystem needs an upgrade.
D
David E
Visiting Visakhapatnam last year, the growth was impressive but the congestion was noticeable. A metro system would really help it mature into a world-class city. Smart urban planning is crucial for India's future.

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