The Nellore Urban Development Authority (NUDA) has successfully transitioned from a financially challenged entity to a benchmark urban development agency within Andhra Pradesh, according to its Chairman, Kotamreddy Srinivasulu Reddy. Speaking to the media at the NUDA office in Autonagar, Reddy elaborated on the significant strides made despite inheriting substantial financial constraints.
Reddy openly criticized the previous administration, specifically the YSR Congress government, alleging that it had severely hampered NUDA's financial standing. He stated that upon assuming his second term, the authority was left virtually devoid of funds. A key example cited was the Jammalapalem layout, where an estimated ₹26 crore was reportedly disbursed for development work during the previous tenure, yet no tangible progress was made. This left approximately 700 plot owners without essential basic infrastructure, a critical failure that NUDA is now actively rectifying.
Addressing the inherited issues, the NUDA chairman confirmed that the authority is now committing a substantial ₹19 crore to complete the development of the Jammalapalem layout. Furthermore, NUDA plans to acquire an additional 21 acres of private land in the vicinity to facilitate the expansion of this crucial residential area. This initiative underscores NUDA's commitment to delivering on long-pending promises and providing habitable spaces for citizens.
Beyond specific project rectifications, Srinivasulu Reddy outlined broader developmental aspirations. Tenders collectively valued at ₹40 crore have been floated for a range of development works across all assembly segments falling within the NUDA jurisdiction. These projects are designed to enhance public utilities and urban amenities throughout the region. Additionally, new layouts are being conceptualized and planned with active support from various ministers and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), aiming to generate much-needed revenue for the authority and fuel future growth.
Highlighting tangible achievements, the NUDA chairman proudly listed several completed projects that have significantly enriched Nellore's urban landscape:
- Taraka Rama Park: A prominent green space offering recreational facilities.
- S.P. Balasubrahmanyam Park: Another public park dedicated to community leisure.
- NTR Necklace Road: A scenic thoroughfare enhancing connectivity and aesthetic appeal.
These projects received crucial backing from Municipal Administration Minister Ponguru Narayana. Looking ahead, Reddy also announced ambitious plans for the NTR Necklace Road, envisioning its phased upgrade to mirror the standards of Hyderabad's renowned Necklace Road, with assistance from Nellore Rural MLA Kotamreddy Sridhar Reddy. Additionally, a new statue of NTR is slated for installation along the Necklace Road in the near future, complementing ongoing efforts to renovate existing statues and develop more parks across the city, reinforcing Nellore's commitment to public spaces and cultural heritage.
Editorial Note: This article features independent news analysis and commentary. Primary reports and event data sourced via Deccan Chronicle.