In a significant move to boost tourism and urban infrastructure, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has issued directives for the creation of a major marina waterfront along the banks of the Krishna river in the capital region. The instructions were given during a high-level meeting of the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) held on Tuesday.
Blueprints for a Tourism Hub
The Chief Minister, who chaired the CRDA Authority meeting, instructed officials to prepare comprehensive plans for the ambitious marina project. He emphasised developing the waterfront through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Key components of the plan include the construction of jetties, the introduction of tourism and leisure boats, setting up food plazas, and extensive landscaping works.
Naidu stressed the necessity of creating a detailed master plan for the entire waterfront design. He also asked the authorities to plan for a variety of water sports activities along the riverfront to attract visitors. In a novel suggestion, the CM proposed exploring the development of islands within the Krishna river for tourism purposes.
Infrastructure and Welfare Initiatives
Addressing the water needs of the capital city, the Chief Minister announced that a new barrage would be constructed upstream of the existing Prakasam barrage. This project is part of the broader Blue-Green City development vision. Under this initiative, officials have been tasked with developing the riverfront on both sides of the Krishna, constructing internal canals, and carrying out beautification works.
The meeting also yielded important welfare decisions. It approved the extension of monthly pensions, currently provided to landless poor under the Land Pooling Scheme (LPS), to orphaned minors in the capital region. Henceforth, minors who have lost both parents will receive a financial support of Rs 5,000 every month.
Strengthening Institutions and Land Pooling
Focusing on institutional strength, Naidu suggested that both the Amaravati Development Corporation (ADC) and the CRDA must adopt measures to become financially robust. He directed officials to study various revenue models to ensure sustainable income and asset acquisition for the long-term growth of these organisations. For mega projects like the proposed Sports City, he recommended examining successful international models, specifically citing the Qatar model for study.
On administrative matters, the meeting ratified the creation of 754 posts within the CRDA. Regarding road-affected plots, a decision was taken to replace 112 plots with alternative ones, provided the original plots have not been alienated to others.
Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister P Narayana, who was present, announced that the second phase of the land pooling process will commence on Thursday. He appealed for farmers' cooperation. The minister clarified that the government, as agreed by the CM, will develop basic trunk infrastructure including roads and power lines on the returnable plots given to farmers promptly, enabling them to utilise their land.
