metro india news  I amaravati

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, on Saturday laid the foundation stones and inaugurated national highway projects worth Rs.5,233 crore in Andhra Pradesh, asserting that infrastructure is the backbone of India's journey to becoming the third-largest economy in the world. The event, held at the CK Convention Centre in Mangalagiri, witnessed the presence of Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan, and other key dignitaries.

Gadkari emphasized that the development of roads, ports, power, and communication systems are critical to the nation’s rapid economic growth. “We are no longer just dreaming,we are achieving. From surpassing Japan to becoming the third-largest economy soon, our trajectory under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership is unstoppable,” he declared.

He highlighted the country’s shift towards clean energy and innovation in transport. “Farmers are producing electricity. Ethanol, methanol, biodiesel, and EVs are transforming India's transport sector. Even planes will soon run on biofuel,” he said, announcing that the government will initiate works worth Rs.1 lakh crore in this financial year alone. Gadkari praised Andhra Pradesh’s progress and credited CM Chandrababu Naidu’s foresight. 

“Development is only possible with a visionary leader. We always hear about Chandrababu’s ideas, he plans for the future. Under his leadership, Andhra Pradesh is moving ahead rapidly in all sectors,” he said. Responding to Gadkari’s remarks, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu called roads a symbol of civilization and progress. Applauding Gadkari's efficiency and dedication, Naidu said, “Every project he undertakes gets completed. His support for Polavaram will never be forgotten.”

Naidu outlined ambitious plans for the state’s logistics and infrastructure, including 20 new ports, dry ports, metro rail for Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam, an ORR around Amaravati, and bullet train connectivity linking Amaravati, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Bengaluru. “Andhra Pradesh must become a global logistics hub. With the Centre’s support, we are turning that dream into reality,” he said.

Naidu added that Andhra Pradesh has abundant rivers, yet water management remains critical. “Thousands of TMCs of Godavari water flow into the sea. We must harness it wisely to solve inter-state disputes and boost agriculture,” he stressed.