The common capital since the TDP came in power in 2014 was Hyderabad, but a new government identified certain places more suitable for a capital considering the availability of resources and connectivity within the state. Therefore, it was decided that Amaravati would be the new capital, and the foundation stone was laid with grandeur. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union ministers, and chief ministers of many states attended the function, which was a huge success.
The event went ahead in the aftermath of constructing its buildings, the court and the secretariat. However, by 2019, when the YCP arrived at the helm, Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy opposed Amaravati as the capital of his government and settled on a three-capital scenario involving Vizag, Kurnool, and Amaravati. This decision made a lot of controversy, but no constructive capital development was made anywhere in those locations. Though some structures were erected, none of those became the state capital.
Once again, the scenario shifted in 2024 as the TDP came together in a coalition government with an absolute majority that shifted the spotlight once again to Amaravati. In this regard, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu declared that construction would begin on Amaravati from December 1, according to Minister Narayana in a recent meeting attended by officials.
In the first phase, it will be estimated around Rs 60 crore. The whole project is estimated around Rs 60,000 crore. Further estimations will be done to decide whether more funds will be required.
The purpose is to finish the capital construction within four years prior to the elections due in 2029. Such a decision has brought relief to farmers, who allotted their 30,000 acres of land for Amaravati. Though the farmers faced harsh times under YCP, it will be all worthwhile with this coalition government of completing the capital construction. It will usher development for the state's well-developed capital.
