Amaravati Becomes New Headquarters of Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board
The Andhra Pradesh government has officially declared Amaravati as the headquarters of the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board (APMB), approving the relocation of its head office from Kakinada. This decision amends the previous designation of Visakhapatnam as the headquarters under the YSRCP regime, now replaced by Amaravati under the Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board Act.
Reason for Relocation: Administrative Convenience and Coordination
The move follows a proposal from the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Maritime Board, who emphasized administrative convenience and the necessity for closer coordination with secretariat departments and other heads of departments located in Amaravati. According to officials, the relocation will align the board's functioning with the state capital and facilitate streamlined port development activities.
Details of the Transition
The government has permitted the shifting of the CEO's office and the Directorate of State Ports (head of department) from Kakinada to Amaravati, along with staff, records, assets, and related infrastructure. The order directs the CEO to initiate steps for transitioning administrative and financial systems to the new location. Salaries and expenditures of staff will now be drawn through the pay and accounts office at Mangalagiri/Vijayawada, replacing the Kakinada district treasury.
Audit and Accounting Functions Mapped to New Office
The Andhra Pradesh Centre for Financial Systems and Services has been instructed to map audit and accounting functions of the Directorate of Ports to the pay and accounts office with immediate effect. This ensures a seamless financial transition and operational continuity.
Impact on Port Development and Governance
Officials stated that the relocation would enhance coordination among departments, potentially accelerating port development projects. The decision marks a significant shift in the state's administrative geography, consolidating key government functions in Amaravati.
