Andhra Pradesh: DPRs for state’s tourism projects likely to be approved by Centre soon
The Swadesh Darshan projects in AP would ensure development in Nagarjuna Sagar, Ahobilam and Suryalanka areas
Vijayawada: The tourism sector in Andhra Pradesh is set for a major fillip with swift central approval expected for some of its Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) vis-à-vis proposed Swadeh Darshan projects.
Tourism minister Kandula Durgesh held a video conference with Union tourism minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat on Tuesday, at which the former sought fast-track approvals for the projects. Shekhawat promised to take up the matter in the next 10 days. Tourism managing director Amrapali Kaata was also present.
The Swadesh Darshan projects in AP would ensure development in Nagarjuna Sagar, Ahobilam and Suryalanka areas. Durgesh expressed his gratitude to the central tourism ministry for its approval of various AP projects for tourism development.
He informed the Union minister that tourism development in AP would proceed through central government schemes like PRASAD, Swadesh Darshan 2.0 and the special assistance to states for capital investment Scheme. “Development work at the Simhachalam temple in Visakhapatnam is complete by 60 per cent and the tendering process for the Annavaram temple development in Kakinada district has been finalized,” he said.
Durgesh noted that the activities would be temporarily halted due to the MLC election code. He also stated that the tendering process for the Borra Caves-Lambasingi projects under Swadesh Darshan 2.0 was ongoing and bids had already been submitted. Additionally, tenders for the Gandikota Fort project under the SASCI Scheme have been received.
“Preparations are being made to provide adventure experiences for tourists. The Akhanda Godavari project development is currently at the tender stage, with official commencement expected soon. Modernization of Pushkar Ghat and Havelock bridges is part of this initiative,” he said.
The AP minister said, “The development work at the Simhachalam temple under the PRASAD Scheme is under way, with `54.04 crore already sanctioned. A sum of `13.69 crore has been utilized in the first phase. If the remaining funds for phases two and three are approved promptly, the work will be completed in another five months, he said.
Durgesh also requested Shekhawat for consideration and approval of proposals related to the Vedadri Lakshmi Narasimha Swamy Temple in Nellore district, submitted on Sept 19 last year. He expressed hope that the proposals for Mangalagiri and Arasavalli temples would be approved quickly to accelerate tourism development in the state.
