In a significant symbolic move, the Andhra Pradesh government has decided to host the upcoming Republic Day celebrations in the state's capital city, Amaravati. This marks the first time the newly designated capital will hold the prestigious national event since the state's bifurcation in 2014.
A Decade-Long Tradition Shifted
For the past ten years, the state's Republic Day and Independence Day events were primarily organized at the Indira Gandhi Municipal Corporation (IGMC) Stadium in Vijayawada. The shift to Amaravati is seen as a deliberate effort by the government to showcase the strength and development of the capital region. This decision follows the state's push to fast-track major infrastructure projects in Amaravati.
The government has directed the Capital Region Development Authority (CRDA) to oversee all necessary arrangements for the grand event. In response, the CRDA has launched extensive development works at the parade grounds in Amaravati.
Rs 8 Crore Infrastructure Overhaul
Officials have revealed that close to Rs 8 crore is being invested to create permanent and temporary infrastructure for the celebrations. The focus is on developing the parade grounds into a venue capable of hosting the parade, official ceremonies, and accommodating large crowds in a grand manner.
The ongoing works are comprehensive and include:
- Ground levelling and development of internal roads.
- Installation of drainage facilities, lighting, and robust power supply systems.
- Construction of temporary galleries and seating arrangements for spectators.
- Setting up public address systems for clear audio coverage.
A special emphasis is being placed on security infrastructure. This involves installing barricades, creating designated emergency access routes, and setting up secure enclosures for dignitaries, senior officials, and special invitees.
A Permanent Venue for the Future
The vision for the parade ground extends beyond a one-time event. Chief Secretary K Vijayanand has instructed the CRDA and Guntur district officials to develop the infrastructure with a long-term perspective. The directive is clear: the ground should be developed as a permanent ceremonial venue.
This means the site will be used for future national celebrations, major official functions, and large public events in the capital city. The move to hold Republic Day in Amaravati is widely interpreted as the state government's renewed commitment to developing the city and firmly establishing it as the state's administrative and ceremonial heart.
By relocating this key national event, the government aims to project Amaravati's growing prominence and signal a new chapter for the capital, a decade after the formation of the new state.
