World Bank Team Evaluates Amaravati Development Loan

The Andhra Pradesh government is seeking a ₹15,000 crore loan from the World Bank to accelerate the development of its state capital, Amaravati. In response, a four-member team from the World Bank began a three-day visit to Amaravati to assess the situation.

On Sunday, the team, accompanied by officials from the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA), toured key infrastructure sites, including Seed Access Roads, the Kondaveetivagu Pumping Scheme, Undavalli Caves, SRM University, and the N-9 Road. These visits are part of their evaluation to determine the feasibility of granting the loan.

Earlier, on Saturday, the World Bank delegation inspected various government quarters under construction, including those for MLCs, MLAs, IAS officers, and NGO employees. They inquired about the availability of essential infrastructure like drinking water and received briefings from APCRDA officials on the ongoing projects in Amaravati, including plans for schools and public health centers.

Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu also visited Amaravati to review the progress of the construction projects. Additionally, a team of engineering experts from IIT Chennai assessed the quality and structural integrity of the building complexes, with their report still pending.

Currently, 80% of the construction work in Amaravati is complete, with the state government determined to finish the remaining 20%. The APCRDA has also initiated jungle clearance in the area to further facilitate development. The World Bank team's assessment will play a crucial role in deciding whether the loan will be sanctioned.