Andhra Pradesh Embraces PPP for Highways

02 Dec 2024 CW Team

Andhra Pradesh has decided to develop 10,200 km of state highways using the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu approved the proposal during a review meeting with the Roads and Buildings (R&B) Department. This marks the first time the state will adopt the PPP model for state highway development.

Key Highlights Phase 1 Scope: Development of 18 roads spanning 1,307 km. DPR Preparation: Officials directed to prepare Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) and expedite construction work. Toll Policy: Tolls will apply only to heavy commercial vehicles, while two-wheelers, autos, tractors, and agricultural vehicles are exempt. Viability Gap Funding and Focus on Quality The government may provide viability gap funding to ensure projects are financially feasible without burdening the public. Emphasis is placed on:

Delivering high-quality, safe roads. Implementing toll rates that are fair and non-exploitative. Blacklisting contractors who fail to meet quality standards. Pothole-Free Roads Initiative Cost Outlay: ?861 crore for repairing 22,299 km of roads in the R&B network. Progress: Potholes filled on 1,991 km. 1,447 km deemed beyond repair, requiring complete rebuilding at a cost of ?581 crore. Deadline: All works targeted for completion by Sankranti festival. Benefits and Outlook The PPP model, successfully used for national highways, is expected to boost state highway infrastructure by leveraging private sector efficiency and investment. This initiative aims to enhance:

Connectivity and road safety. Economic activity, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. Public convenience, through exemptions for everyday and agricultural vehicles. The initiative reflects the government’s focus on sustainable infrastructure while safeguarding public interests.

Infrastructure Energy

14 Oct 2025

Maharashtra Clears Green Power Use For Data Centres

In a major policy boost for India’s expanding digital infrastructure, the Maharashtra government has approved a plan allowing data centres in Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and surrounding regions to generate and distribute their own renewable energy. The state energy department issued an order enabling data centre parks and individual units, recognised by the industries department, to set up captive power generation and distribution facilities. The permission applies exclusively to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, or hydro power. Industry experts have hailed the decision as tran..

GHMC Launches Drive To Boost Property Tax Revenue

The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has launched a special campaign to enhance property tax revenue from non-residential and commercial properties by reassessing their total built-up area. Any discrepancies identified during inspections will trigger immediate revision of both property tax and trade licence fees, officials said. The initial phase of the drive focuses on shopping malls across Hyderabad, with over 300 such establishments identified in the twin cities. After the mall inspections, GHMC will extend the verification process to other non-residential properties, includi..

Cholamandalam To Raise Rs 10 Billion Via NCD Issue

Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company has invited bids to raise up to Rs 10 billion through secured non-convertible debentures (NCDs) maturing on 14 October 2030, offering a coupon rate of 7.58 per cent. The NCD issue, announced on Monday, comes at a time when corporate bond activity — which saw strong momentum in the first quarter of FY26 — has slowed during the second quarter owing to rising borrowing costs. However, market analysts anticipate a rebound in the coming months as easing bond yields could reignite investor appetite for corporate debt instruments. The company’s fu..