Andhra CM launches Rs 860 crore project for pothole-free roads by Sankranti
By Doruvu Paul Jagan Babu:Bureau Chief
Andhra Pradesh: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has inaugurated an ambitious state-wide road repair initiative, committing 860 crore to ensure pothole-free roads by Sankranti and setting a five-year goal for comprehensive infrastructure upgrades.
Pothole-free roads across the state
In a major infrastructure push, AP Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the “Pothole-Free Roads” initiative in Paravada, Anakapalli district, pledging to make state roads flawless by Sankranti. He emphasized that the improved roadways will allow visitors to feel pride in the state’s infrastructure, with plans to monitor roads using drones and enforce strict contractor deadlines.
Expanding national highways and industrial parks
The Chief Minister revealed plans for extensive upgrades to national highways totaling 1.25 lakh crore in the next five years, with 76,000 crore of projects to be completed in 2.5 years. As part of broader development goals, Naidu committed to establishing industrial parks in all 175 constituencies, with priority given to job creation for youth and local resources.
Strengthening ports and rail connectivity
With a coastline spanning from Moolpet to Krishnapatnam, Andhra Pradesh is set to see new ports along its coastal belt, enhancing trade capacity. The state also aims to build a Kolkata-Chennai four-lane railway corridor to expedite goods transport and save travel time.
Cement roads for all villages
The Chief Minister promised that every village road would be converted to cement road over the next five years, building on 24,000 km of cemented roads established during his previous administration.
Commitment to women’s safety and welfare
In a commitment to public safety, the Chief Minister announced large-scale CCTV installation across the state and the deployment of drones for monitoring. The government will take strict action against liquor shops violating the liquor policy and has proposed further support for women, including the provision of drones to DWCRA women to assist in agricultural fields.
Restoring systems and public trust
The Roads and Buildings Department has allocated 860 crore for urgent road repairs, with Minister BC Janardhan Reddy emphasizing the immediate release of funds to expedite work on 20,000 km of roads. Naidu also highlighted initiatives like the Polavaram project for water supply and outlined plans for expanding the Visakha Steel Plant, stressing his government’s dedication to infrastructure improvements and social welfare in the state.