Centre focusing on development: GVL Narasimha Rao

Visakhapatnam: BJP is taking historic decisions including the abrogation of Article 370, which makes India stand apart globally, Rajya Sabha member G V L Narasimha Rao said on Thursday.

Addressing media, he said the Centre was focusing on various development initiatives and soon Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor becomes a reality as part of the first phase of Kolkata-Kanyakumari East Coast Economic Corridor with the support of the Asian Development Bank.

"The project will provide over one crore job opportunities across the country," he said after visiting the Visakhapatnam Port Trust. Narasimha Rao said measures would be taken to develop the port further to increase the trade opportunities.

"Even in times of economic slowdown, decisions made by the BJP such as slashing of corporate tax rates and attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) help offer a great relief. A strong foundation has been laid to develop 'naya Bharath' under Modi's able leadership. People now look up to India which is marching ahead in development areas," Narasimha Rao stated.

He said the Centre was keen on the completion of Polavaram irrigation project on time. "If the State government completes it without any cost escalation or any delay, it will be welcomed. However, it should not be a temporary effort," he stated.

He added that there should be cordial relations between the Centre and the State to facilitate development works in a hassle-free manner.

About retaining Waltair Division, Narasimha Rao said that in the process of reorganising zones and divisions of Indian Railways, there is a thin chance of retaining Waltair Division as zone itself is considered higher than division in the hierarchy.