Andhra Pradesh Minister P Narayana Launches Digital Platform for 123 Municipalities
In a significant move towards enhancing urban governance, Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister P Narayana has directed officials to prioritize solid and liquid waste management across Andhra Pradesh. The minister stressed that visible improvements in civic services are crucial for elevating the quality of life in urban areas.
New Digital Platform for Municipalities
Launching a new website for 123 municipalities on Friday, Narayana highlighted that this digital platform integrates all urban local bodies through a common dashboard. This integration enables citizens to make online payments and access comprehensive information about municipal services. The minister described this initiative as a pivotal step towards achieving transparent and citizen-centric governance.
Key Directives for Municipal Commissioners
Addressing the regional conference of municipal commissioners in Anantapur virtually, Narayana issued several important instructions to officials. He emphasized the need to ensure round-the-clock safe drinking water supply and expedite underground drainage works under the AMRUT scheme. Additionally, the minister called for intensified daily sanitation monitoring to maintain cleanliness in urban areas.
Narayana announced that Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu will lay foundation stones for key infrastructure projects next month, with completion targeted within two years. This move aims to accelerate urban development and improve living standards across the state.
Focus on Housing and Waste Management
The minister urged municipalities to speed up TIDCO housing projects and clear legacy waste by March 31. He directed that the cleared sites be developed into parks, contributing to greener urban spaces. Narayana also addressed issues caused by stray dogs and pigs, calling for effective measures to tackle these challenges.
To promote urban planning compliance, the minister advocated for awareness campaigns on the regularization of unauthorized buildings. He emphasized taking firm action against violations to ensure orderly urban development.
Andhra Pradesh Leads in Town Planning Reforms
Highlighting the state's achievements in urban governance, Narayana stated that Andhra Pradesh ranks among the top states in town planning. He cited several reforms that have streamlined urban development, including rationalized road widths, eased setback norms, simplified fire safety rules, and transparent approval processes. The minister credited Town Planning Director Vidyullatha for driving these transformative changes.
Features of the New Municipal Websites
Explaining the functionality of the new websites, Narayana detailed that they provide citizens with easy access to various services, notifications, and social media feeds. A notable feature is the AI-based virtual assistant named Puramitra, designed to offer quick help and support to users.
Citizens can log in using their mobile numbers to access property details, submit grievances, view municipal dashboards, and explore city maps. This digital approach aims to make municipal services more accessible and user-friendly.
Conference Attendance and Implementation
The regional conference saw participation from senior officials, including MAUD Principal Secretary Suresh Kumar, Swachh Andhra MD Anil Kumar Reddy, TIDCO MD Sunil Reddy, and commissioners from 42 municipalities. Their involvement underscores the collective effort to implement these initiatives effectively across urban local bodies.
This comprehensive approach by Minister Narayana reflects Andhra Pradesh's commitment to improving urban infrastructure, enhancing digital governance, and ensuring sustainable development for its citizens.
