Infrastructure – Amaravati Secures Major Central Housing and Secretariat Projects
Infrastructure – Amaravati is set to witness a significant boost in its administrative infrastructure after the Union government approved two major projects aimed at strengthening the capital city’s governance framework. The decision was taken during a meeting of the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Among the approved initiatives is Andhra Pradesh’s first-ever General Pool Residential Accommodation (GPRA) complex for Central government employees.
The housing project, estimated at Rs 1,234.91 crore, will be financed entirely by the Central government. It is intended to provide quality residential facilities for government staff working in Amaravati, allowing employees to live closer to their workplaces while supporting the long-term administrative development of the capital.
State Leadership Welcomes Approval
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu welcomed the approval and expressed gratitude to the Union Cabinet for clearing both the residential accommodation project and the Central Government General Pool Office Accommodation initiative. According to the Chief Minister, the projects will strengthen the presence of Central institutions in Amaravati and improve coordination among various government departments.
Naidu stated that the developments would contribute to efficient public service delivery while supporting Amaravati’s emergence as an important centre for governance and administration in the coming years.
Combined Investment Nears Rs 2,534 Crore
In addition to the residential complex, the Centre has approved a Common Central Secretariat project worth Rs 1,299.08 crore. The office complex will cover approximately 23.25 lakh square feet and is expected to accommodate multiple Central government departments under one administrative framework.
With the approval of both projects, total Central investment in Amaravati is expected to reach nearly Rs 2,534 crore. Officials believe the initiatives will play a key role in accelerating the city’s institutional and administrative growth.
Projects Revived After Earlier Delay
Union Minister of State for Rural Development and Communications Pemmasani Chandrasekhar said the proposals were originally introduced in 2018. However, progress slowed after 2019 and remained pending for several years. He noted that the projects have now been revived and moved forward under the present coalition administration.
Speaking in New Delhi, Chandrasekhar described the approvals as an important step toward establishing stronger government infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh’s capital region.
Large-Scale Residential Township Planned
The GPRA project will be developed across a 17-acre site and will feature a total built-up area of around 31.30 lakh square feet. The plan includes basement parking facilities spread over 9.10 lakh square feet, capable of accommodating nearly 1,972 vehicles.
The residential township will consist of 11 apartment towers containing 1,504 housing units across various categories. Safety provisions, including designated refuge areas, have also been incorporated into the design. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs will supervise execution through the Central Public Works Department (CPWD), with preliminary tender-related activities already in progress.
Focus on Sustainability and Public Amenities
Officials have stated that the project will follow modern environmental standards and aim for a GRIHA 4-Star sustainability rating. Planned features include energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures and the use of locally sourced construction materials wherever feasible.
The township will also provide several public facilities for residents, including a bank, ATM, post office, childcare centre, shopping area, food court, guest house, service centre and a community hall. Accessibility features are being incorporated to ensure a barrier-free environment for persons with disabilities.
Employment Opportunities Expected
Beyond its administrative importance, the project is expected to generate substantial employment opportunities. Estimates suggest that construction activities could create around seven lakh mandays of work each year. Once operational, the facilities are expected to support approximately 50,000 mandays annually through maintenance and related services.
Thousands of skilled and unskilled workers across Andhra Pradesh are likely to benefit from the employment opportunities generated by the development projects.
Chandrasekhar also acknowledged the support of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal Khattar, and other stakeholders involved in securing approval for the initiatives.