Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu has announced a Rs 15-billion plan to revamp the state’s road infrastructure, including the construction of 2,000 kilometres of new roads and repairs to damaged ones. Of the total, Rs 10 billion is allocated for new construction and Rs 5 billon for road repairs, according to a report by The Hindu.

At a review meeting with the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department at the State Secretariat, the Chief Minister instructed officials to expedite cost assessments and initiate the tendering process.

Highlighting the poor condition of roads due to prior administrative lapses, Naidu emphasised the need to meet national highway standards and ensure continuous maintenance, especially during the monsoon.

Officials were given a 15-day deadline to submit a comprehensive report detailing repair requirements, new road proposals, and long-term maintenance strategies. Naidu also called for the adoption of modern construction technologies to enhance quality and reduce costs.

The R&B Department reported that 20,000 kilometres of roads have already been repaired and made pothole-free. Naidu has directed that construction work must begin by November and ordered contractor details to be published online for public transparency.

Additional measures include the installation of CCTV cameras every 50 kilometres and assigning full maintenance responsibility to contractors. He also stressed the importance of implementing preventive measures against rain-related damage.

The Chief Minister strongly advocated for the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model in road development. Officials stated that of the 12,653 kilometres of state highways, 10,200 kilometres across 260 roads are suitable for development under PPP.

In Phase 1A, 18 roads spanning 1,332 kilometres have been proposed. Phase 1B will cover 67 roads over 40 kilometres in length, totalling 3,854 kilometres. Phase 2 includes 175 roads between 20 to 40 kilometres each, with a combined length of 5,039 kilometres.

Two key corridors—Yelamanchili–Gajuwaka and Gajulamandyam–Sri City (115 kilometres)—are also under active consideration. Naidu directed officials to conduct feasibility studies and submit a final report on these routes.

News source: The Hindu