Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan underscored the importance of strong leadership and efficient governance in accelerating development during the foundation stone-laying ceremony of the Akhanda Godavari Project in Rajamahendravaram.
The landmark initiative, launched in the presence of Union Minister for Tourism and Culture Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, aims to transform the Godavari region into a thriving cultural, spiritual, and economic hub.
Speaking at the historic Pushkar Ghat, where the Rs 94.44 crore project was officially launched, Pawan Kalyan remarked, “Development is possible only with powerful leadership and an efficient government.”
He emphasized the project’s potential to significantly enhance tourism and employment, projecting an annual increase of 4 lakh tourists once the initiative is fully realized. The Deputy CM also expressed gratitude to the central government for its collaboration, specifically thanking Minister Shekhawat for his support in both halting the privatization of the Visakha Steel Plant and advancing key development efforts in the state.
Funded under the Centre’s Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) 2024–25 scheme, the Akhanda Godavari Project is set to revamp tourism across Rajamahendravaram, Dowleswaram, Kadiyam, Kovvur, and Nidadavolu.
Key components of the plan include the revitalization of the 127-year-old Havelock Bridge, featuring attractions such as artificial waterfalls, a glass bridge, gaming zones, a space-themed park, and a hologram zoo. The project also includes redevelopment of Pushkar Ghat and the creation of a new Kadiyam Nursery Experience Centre. Completion is targeted ahead of the 2027 Godavari Pushkaralu, with an ambitious goal of drawing 35 lakh tourists annually by 2035.
Kalyan praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Ministry of Culture and Tourism for their unwavering support. He shared his thoughts on X, stating, “This project is a major milestone in unlocking the cultural, spiritual, and economic potential of the Godavari region.” Minister Shekhawat echoed these sentiments, noting that the project would usher in a new era for heritage and spiritual tourism in Andhra Pradesh.
The event was also attended by Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh, MP Daggubati Purandeswari, and other senior leaders. In addition to launching the Akhanda Godavari Project, the day’s proceedings included the inauguration of a Regional Science Centre at Bommuru and the laying of the foundation stone for the Andhra Pradesh State Forest Academy Complex at Diwancheruvu. Despite rainy weather, the event was conducted with enthusiasm and high public interest.