Bouquets and brickbats

Vijayawada: Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu’s whirlwind tour in the city two days ago received bouquets and brickbats. Naidu had introduced the city development project in the name of ‘CM Package’ with 33 specific works in his earlier tenure as the Chief Minister.

The specific work plan, including budget allocation and completion period, was drafted in the past. But the government had to stop the city development project in midway after TDP lost power in 2004. Now, the TDP senior leaders and former officials recalled the development works, while urging the government to implement the similar plan as the atmosphere is conducive now. The city roads expansion, canals beautification, housing for the poor, drainage, traffic regulation and greenery were included in the Chief Minister’s development plan in his previous tenure.

The city assumed significance for its proximity to capital Amaravati, the state government had spent Rs 2,000 crore during the past three years. Several important works are under construction stage and some other works are yet to get nod from the government. Flyover construction work at Durga temple and Benz Circle began one-and-a-half-years ago but the works are being going on at a snail’s pace. Besides, there is a need to expand several roads in the city.

Even the officials identified the importance of expansion of several roads from Mogulrajapuram to Eluru Road towards Christurajapuram, Benz Circle to Poranki Road and some parts of five number bus route but there is no progress. Similarly, the works of storm water drain project were launched one year ago but works are going on slowly.

Earlier, the state government had formally finalised plans to set up some institutions on the Old Government Hospital premises and old bus station sites but no steps have been taken so far. The government intends to shift the encroachments from canal bunds under beautification project but it has not been completed even half of the target. Interestingly, several works were taken up during the Krishna Pushkaralu in the past but some of them are waiting for completion.

Former corporator and TDP leader Bobba Srinivasa Rao said that the development of the city is vital at present. He expressed satisfaction over the Chief Minister’s tour in the city. He said that the canal bunds should be developed as roadways especially on Eluru Road. It could be given wide road connectivity as it would solve traffic problem, he said.

Former VGTM VUDA chairman Tumati Premnath said that Chandrababu Naidu was instrumental in the city development. He recalled that in the previous stint, the Chief Minister had implemented ‘CM Package’ plan. He urged the government to revive it again by taking as a model.

On the other hand, CPM leader Ch Babu Rao criticised the CM for his negligence in the city development. He said that the government did not solve the housing project even thousands of beneficiaries were selected long ago. He asked the government to release white paper on city development. He also asked the Chief Minister to release funds immediately to solve many issues.

Srinivas Patibandla