TPN, Bhimavaram: State Power Minister and West Godavari District In-charge Minister Gottipati Ravikumar announced the government’s commitment to improving living standards through road development. On Saturday, he inaugurated the initiative by symbolically pounding a coconut to mark the beginning of work at the local China Amiram intersection.
Addressing attendees, Minister Ravikumar highlighted the dire state of roads in the region, attributing their poor condition to the negligence of the previous government. He noted that upon taking office, the coalition government prioritized road repair as a key target. “We have sanctioned over 800 crores for pothole repairs statewide,” he stated, referring to the significant funds allocated by Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in response to the public’s plight.
Ravikumar revealed that repair work has commenced on 74 roads in seven constituencies, with a budget of Rs. 1,699 lakhs. Additionally, plans are in place to repair another 114 roads at a cost of Rs. 3,125 lakhs in the following week, aiming for completion by Sankranti.
The minister emphasized the necessity of a robust road infrastructure for the state’s economic development, noting the challenges faced by citizens due to disorganized road conditions. “People incur physical and financial burdens due to damaged vehicles and health issues caused by poor travel conditions,” he explained.
Gottipati Ravikumar affirmed the coalition government’s commitment to providing better governance and welfare programs, which already include increased pensions and a scheme offering three free cylinders to women. He urged public support for these initiatives and expressed optimism about implementing further welfare programs alongside the road construction efforts.
The launch event was attended by District Collector Chadalavada Nagarani, APIIC Chairman Mantena Ramaraju, Bhimavaram MLAs Pulaparthi Ramanjaneyulu, former Rajya Sabha Member Thota Sitaramalakshmi, and other local leaders and officials.