Andhra Pradesh Roads and Buildings Minister BC Janardhan Reddy on Tuesday said that Rs 14.3 billion is required for the reconstruction of 352 bridges across the state. Addressing the Assembly, he noted that efforts are underway to carry out the works with support from the 16th Finance Commission.

Responding to questions from several MLAs, Reddy admitted the concerns over road and bridge conditions were valid. He criticised the previous YSRCP government, alleging it failed to develop new roads between 2019 and 2024 and neglected maintenance, causing inconvenience to the public.

He added that the TDP-led NDA government, after taking office, allocated Rs 10.8 billion for urgent pothole repairs. Reddy further claimed that the previous government was unable to repay Rs 19.8 billion in loans from the New Development Bank, which could have supported the development of 2,500 kilometres of roadways.

In addition to repairs, the minister said single-layer roads are being developed under the directions of Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu. He also announced that a corporation will be set up to oversee road development projects and ensure timely completion.