After a six-year political and developmental pause, Amaravati is back in the spotlight. With Chandrababu Naidu’s return to power in 2024, the Andhra Pradesh capital project is being reignited with fresh momentum, vision, and central government support.
The Grand Revival Begins
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid the foundation stone for infrastructure projects worth Rs 58,000 crore, of which Rs 49,000 crore is dedicated to Amaravati. These include construction of the Legislative Assembly, High Court, Secretariat, and official residences for judicial officers—signaling a comprehensive capital city revival.
A Dream Deferred Since Bifurcation
Amaravati’s journey began in 2014 when Naidu, then CM, proposed it as the new capital following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh and loss of Hyderabad to Telangana. Over 33,000 acres were voluntarily pooled from 30,000 farmers in 29 villages, with promises of land, compensation, and long-term economic growth.
However, the project stalled after YSR Congress Party led by Jagan Mohan Reddy came to power in 2019. His government proposed a three-capital model, relegating Amaravati to legislative status and shifting executive and judicial capitals to Visakhapatnam and Kurnool. This move triggered widespread protests and legal battles, particularly from the farming community.
Years of Legal Limbo and Infrastructural Decline
From 2019 to 2024, Amaravati saw virtually no development. International collaborations fell through, and partially built structures dotted the once-hopeful landscape. Protests from organizations like the Amaravati Parirakshana Samithi continued. A 2023 CAG report flagged issues like cost overruns, poor planning, and inconsistencies in land allotment—adding to public frustration.
Naidu’s Return with NDA Backing
In 2024, Naidu staged a political comeback with the support of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA). His campaign vowed to fulfill commitments made to farmers and elevate Amaravati to global standards. The renewed partnership with the Centre has breathed new life into the dream of a unified capital.
Addressing villagers in Inavolu, Civil Supplies Minister Nadendla Manohar stated, “Amaravati farmers’ sacrifices resulted in the formation of this coalition government. Development will now be inclusive.”
A Mega Vision for Amaravati
Plans now include expansion of Amaravati into a megacity by integrating nearby urban hubs—Guntur, Vijayawada, Tadepalli, and Mangalagiri. The state is also considering acquiring an additional 40,000 acres to realize this vision. Supporting infrastructure like ring roads, upgraded rail links, and a new international airport are part of the blueprint.
Conclusion
Amaravati’s resurrection under Naidu’s leadership signals not just a return to unfinished projects but a reassertion of public trust, especially among the 30,000 farmers who sacrificed their land. With Centre-State synergy, the capital city dream may finally become reality after a decade of uncertainty.
As Amaravati prepares to rise from political limbo, all eyes are now on implementation, transparency, and inclusive growth.
