All about Amaravati
Amaravati, the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, is an emerging urban center of strategic and historical importance. Located in the Guntur district on the right bank of the Krishna River, the city is part of the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region, which also encompasses neighboring cities like Vijayawada and Guntur. Its name is derived from the nearby historic Amaravathi village, once the capital of the Satavahana dynasty nearly two millennia ago.
Amaravati has been designed as a planned urban area under the oversight of the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA) and the Amaravati Development Corporation Limited. Spanning 217.23 km², the city comprises regions from three mandals: Mangalagiri, Thullur, and Tadepalli. A land pooling scheme enabled the acquisition of 33,000 acres of land from Guntur district farmers in exchange for developed plots and lease payments over ten years, making it an innovative case in urban development.
The bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, leading to the creation of Telangana, left Andhra Pradesh without a capital city. To address this, Amaravati was declared the new capital under the leadership of then-Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu. Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the city’s foundation stone on October 22, 2015, at Uddandarayunipalem village. Interim government facilities, such as the state legislature and secretariat, began operating from Velagapudi in March 2017.
The name “Amaravati” translates to “the abode of immortals”, highlighting its spiritual and mythological relevance. Historically, Amaravathi village near Dharanikota served as an ancient capital during the Satavahana period, influencing trade, culture, and art. The city’s name reflects its deep-rooted ties to its historic and cultural heritage.
Amaravati is envisioned as a smart and sustainable capital, blending modern urban design with traditional Indian values. With state-of-the-art infrastructure and innovative governance frameworks, it is set to become a benchmark in urban development for India. The city’s connectivity to major cities, including Vijayawada and Guntur, and its prime location along the Krishna River, further enhance its role as a key administrative, cultural, and economic hub.
As a growing capital with historical roots and visionary planning, Amaravati stands as a symbol of Andhra Pradesh’s resilience and aspirations for future development.
History of Amaravati: A Timeline and Overview
Amaravati’s history is marked by an incredible journey spanning ancient kingdoms, medieval empires, colonial powers, and its modern emergence as a planned city. Below is a detailed look at its historical timeline and developments.
Modern Amaravati: Timeline of Events
Key Dates and Events
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| 2 June 2014 | AP Reorganization Act comes into force, bifurcating Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. |
| 1 September 2014 | Location of the new capital city, Amaravati, is finalized. |
| 30 December 2014 | APCRDA (Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority) Act comes into effect. |
| January 2015 | Voluntary Land Pooling Scheme announced for capital development. |
| March 2015 | Consent for 33,000 acres of land is obtained from farmers. |
| 6 June 2015 | Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu conducts the Bhoomi Puja for Amaravati. |
| 22 October 2015 | Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays the foundation stone for Amaravati. |
| March 2017 | Legislature and Secretariat operations begin in the city. |
| 27 December 2018 | Foundation stone laid for permanent Andhra Pradesh Secretariat Towers. |
| 3 February 2019 | Chief Justice of India lays foundation stone for Andhra Pradesh High Court in Amaravati. |
| 31 July 2020 | Governor grants assent to the contentious three capitals legislation. |
| 22 November 2021 | Andhra Pradesh Government repeals the three capitals legislation. |
| 5 March 2022 | High Court rules in favor of Amaravati as the single capital. |
| 8 June 2024 | Development works restart under the unified single capital city model. |
Amaravati’s modern vision symbolizes a blend of strategic urban planning and cultural heritage restoration, spearheading Andhra Pradesh’s efforts to create a globally recognized city.
Ancient and Medieval Amaravati
Amaravati’s significance dates back over two millennia and was a thriving center of culture, religion, and trade during ancient times.
Satavahana Dynasty (2nd Century BCE)
- Dharanikota (Dhānyakatakam), located near modern Amaravati, was the capital city of the Satavahana Dynasty, which ruled Andhra Pradesh from the 2nd century BCE.
- The Satavahanas played a crucial role in spreading Prakrit, a prominent ancient Indian language, written using the Brahmi script. This script later formed the foundation for the Telugu script.
- Amaravati emerged as a center for Mahayana Buddhism, with its Amaravati Stupa being one of the largest Buddhist stupas in India, attracting followers from Southeast Asia.
Rulers of Amaravati Over Time
Amaravati saw successive rulers, each contributing to its cultural and political legacy:
- Ikshvakus
- Vishnukundinas
- Pallavas
- Cholas
- Kakatiyas
During these dynasties, Amaravati evolved into a hub for art, religion, and learning, particularly for Buddhism and Hinduism.
Sultanates and Colonial Powers
In later centuries, Amaravati passed into the hands of Muslim sultanates, European colonial forces, and prominent dynasties:
- Controlled by the Delhi Sultanate, the region transitioned to local powers like the Musunuri Nayaks, Bahmani Sultanate, and later the Vijayanagara Empire.
- In 1724, the area became part of the Nizamate of Hyderabad.
- It was ceded to the French in 1750 but soon taken over by the British East India Company in 1759.
Amaravati under Colonial and Post-Colonial Eras
British Rule
Amaravati, as part of the Madras Presidency, flourished under local kings and colonial administration.
- Raja Vasireddy Venkatadri Nayudu, a ruler of the 19th century, is credited with the modern reconstruction of Amaravati, focusing on civic development while preserving its heritage.
Post-Independence
With the reorganization of Andhra Pradesh in 2014, Amaravati re-emerged as a planned capital city, marking a new chapter in its storied history.
Cultural Legacy of Amaravati
Buddhist Heritage
- Amaravati Stupa: Also known as Mahachaitya, it represents the cultural richness of the region during Satavahana rule. The intricate carvings on its limestone panels showcase some of the finest examples of Buddhist art and sculpture.
- Buddhist Learning Hub: Ancient Amaravati was a key center for Mahayana Buddhist scholars and pilgrims.
Architecture and Influence
The city’s evolution reflects a blend of indigenous Dravidian styles with influences from regional sultanates and colonial architecture, adding to its unique character.
Foundation of Amaravati: A Visionary Capital City for Andhra Pradesh
The creation of Amaravati as the new capital of Andhra Pradesh marked a significant milestone following the state’s bifurcation. Anchored in modern urban planning principles, Amaravati’s foundation reflects strategic planning, collaborative stakeholder engagement, and the pursuit of decentralized development.
Backdrop: Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014
Following the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh through the Andhra Pradesh Reorganization Act, 2014, Hyderabad was designated as the capital of the newly-formed Telangana. Andhra Pradesh required a new capital to establish administrative functionality and drive development.
To guide this decision, the Central Government set up an expert committee tasked with evaluating potential locations. This committee conducted comprehensive data analyses, site visits, and stakeholder consultations to assess factors like:
- Land availability, water resources, and environmental sustainability.
- Transportation connectivity with road, rail, and air links to major cities.
- Potential for urban and industrial growth to ensure long-term viability.
The committee brought together experts from premier national institutions, making the decision robust and forward-thinking.
Amaravati’s Location and Vision
On September 1, 2014, following consultations and public sentiment analysis, the Andhra Pradesh Government under Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu announced the Vijayawada-Guntur region as the proposed site for the new capital. Factors influencing this decision included:
- Strategic positioning near the Krishna River, which offered natural resources for development.
- Proximity to Vijayawada, a major urban hub with existing infrastructure.
Naidu emphasized a decentralized development strategy, proposing three mega cities and 14 smart cities across the state to distribute growth benefits. Amaravati’s announcement sought strong backing from the Central Government for financial aid, special status for the state, and capital development.
Land Pooling Initiative and the APCRDA Act
The creation of Amaravati was made possible through a pioneering Land Pooling Initiative, established under the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA) Act, 2014. This mechanism enabled landowners to contribute their land voluntarily in exchange for:
- Developed plots in the planned capital region.
- Annuity payments for ten years to support those who surrendered land.
Key aspects of the land pooling process:
- Aimed to consolidate 53,748 acres of land from 27 villages, of which 33,733 acres were pooled.
- Small land parcels were aggregated, improved, and partially returned to original owners, enabling structured urban growth.
- Despite the success, some opposition emerged, particularly from farmers in Penumaka and Undavalli, regarding compensation rates.
This innovative model earned recognition for balancing developmental goals with landowners’ rights and compensation.
The Name and Legacy of Amaravati
Amaravati, named after an ancient town on the Krishna River, symbolizes a historical and cultural legacy. Once a significant hub during the Satavahana period, Amaravati carries connotations of prosperity and spiritual significance.
On October 22, 2015, the site for the capital city was finalized during a cabinet meeting, followed by a grand foundation-laying ceremony, attended by:
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi,
- Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, and
- Governor ESL Narasimhan.
The event emphasized the vision for Amaravati as a city of global standards, incorporating:
- Energy-efficient urban planning.
- Creation of industrial hubs.
- Development of smart infrastructure, including a 200-km ring road connecting Amaravati with Vijayawada and Guntur.
Strategic Planning and Goals
The government prepared an ambitious master plan, outlining a phased development schedule:
- The first phase of construction was set for completion by May 15, 2016.
- Industrial areas, residential zones, and sustainable energy solutions formed the core of the development.
The leadership’s vision was to build Amaravati into a symbol of progress, leveraging strategic location, innovative land pooling, and modern infrastructure.
The foundation of Amaravati demonstrates Andhra Pradesh’s determination to build a thriving capital, blending historical significance with future-focused urban development.
Establishing Governance in Amaravati
Amaravati’s development as the capital city of Andhra Pradesh included creating administrative infrastructure and facilitating governance during a transformative period for the state. The approach combined innovative planning with temporary solutions to ensure uninterrupted functioning of the government.
Temporary Secretariat at Velagapudi
To establish administrative operations quickly, the state government built a temporary Secretariat at Velagapudi, located 16 kilometers from Vijayawada. Key details of the project include:
- Completed on October 3, 2016, with a total budget of ₹230 crores.
- The Secretariat spans 45 acres and adopts a G-plus-1 style construction.
- By October 17, 2016, five of the six planned blocks were operational, housing government offices and departments.
Key infrastructure components:
- The first block accommodates the Chief Minister’s Office.
- Other blocks house the offices of various ministers and administrative departments.
- The sixth block serves as the premises for the Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Legislative Council.
This rapid implementation ensured administrative functions resumed without disruption.
Andhra Pradesh High Court Relocation
The Andhra Pradesh High Court was shifted to Amaravati into a temporary building inaugurated by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi. Key highlights of the court’s transition:
- The building includes 16 court halls and 2.70 lakh square feet of office space.
- Although operational, challenges persisted, particularly for legal professionals, including:
- Inadequate broadband connectivity.
- Limited access to library facilities.
Despite these hurdles, advocates remained optimistic, foreseeing Amaravati’s development as an effective administrative and judicial center.
Amaravati Protests (2019–2024)
Amaravati witnessed widespread protests during the 2019–2024 period due to the controversy surrounding the government’s proposal to introduce three capitals for Andhra Pradesh:
- Amaravati (Legislative Capital).
- Visakhapatnam (Executive Capital).
- Kurnool (Judicial Capital).
These protests stemmed from opposition by farmers who had given their lands for Amaravati’s development under the land pooling scheme. Protests included sit-ins, marches, and court interventions as farmers and stakeholders demanded Amaravati be retained as the sole capital.
Legal Developments in Capital Designation
The controversy culminated in legislative and legal developments:
- July 31, 2020: The Governor gave assent to legislation for three capitals.
- November 22, 2021: The three-capital legislation was withdrawn.
- March 5, 2022: The High Court ruled in favor of Amaravati as the single capital city.
These events underlined the need for a balanced approach to governance, addressing development aspirations and public concerns.
Amaravati Drone Summit 2024
Amaravati hosted the prestigious Drone Summit 2024, showcasing its potential as a hub for technology and innovation. Organized by the Andhra Pradesh Drone Corporation, in partnership with:
- Ministry of Civil Aviation, and
- Drone Federation of India,
The summit attracted over 6,900 participants at CK Convention Center in Mangalagiri on October 22–23, 2024. Highlights of the summit include:
- Panel discussions and exhibitions showcasing advancements in drone technology.
- Hands-on workshops and demonstrations to encourage student participation and industry collaboration.
- A spectacular drone shows at Punnami Ghat, Vijayawada, featuring over 5,500 drones, which set five Guinness World Records.
Economic and Job Growth Prospects
The Drone Summit highlighted the government’s aspirations for Amaravati as a future tech hub. Goals outlined during the event include:
- Attracting ₹2,000 crore in investments.
- Generating approximately ₹6,000 crore in revenue.
- Training over 20,000 youth as certified drone pilots.
- Creating over 30,000 jobs through the initiative.
The success of this summit underscored Amaravati’s potential to emerge as a center for innovation and a catalyst for state-wide economic growth.
Establishing Governance in Amaravati
The establishment of governance infrastructure in Amaravati signified a bold step forward for Andhra Pradesh in its journey to build a vibrant new capital city. Following the bifurcation of the state in 2014, the government prioritized creating a functional administrative hub to meet operational and symbolic needs.
Development of the Secretariat
- The temporary Secretariat at Velagapudi, located 16 km from Vijayawada, was completed on October 3, 2016, with an investment of ₹230 crore. This marked the foundational phase of Amaravati’s governance infrastructure.
- Spread across 45 acres, the Secretariat follows a G-plus-1 design and incorporates six separate blocks, each serving a specific purpose:
- The Chief Minister’s Office occupies the first block.
- Additional blocks accommodate various ministers and departments.
- The sixth block is designated for the Andhra Pradesh Assembly and Legislative Council, underscoring the city’s legislative importance.
By October 17, 2016, five of these six blocks became fully operational. Despite being a temporary arrangement, this swift establishment ensured minimal disruptions to governance post-bifurcation.
Relocation of the High Court
- The Andhra Pradesh High Court was relocated to a new building in Amaravati. It was inaugurated by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi.
- The complex features:
- 16 court halls
- A 2.70 lakh sq. ft. office space
However, the relocation presented challenges:
- Advocates initially lacked access to adequate broadband services, legal libraries, and other essentials.
- Despite these teething issues, legal professionals maintained optimism about the capital’s growing prominence as a judicial hub.
Impact and Infrastructure Challenges
Amaravati’s infrastructure met mixed reactions:
- The state’s quick actions post-bifurcation showcased its commitment to building a world-class capital for its administrative and legislative needs.
- However, criticism arose over delays in providing basic amenities, and the state faced financial challenges balancing capital construction with governance operations.
The state successfully established its governance institutions while simultaneously attracting investments and public support for Amaravati.
Planning a Visionary Smart City
Amaravati’s planning embodies a future-focused vision, drawing inspiration from global examples like Singapore. Its development strategy revolves around people-centric design, ensuring sustainability, connectivity, and modern amenities to create an environmentally harmonious yet progressive urban space.
A Smart City for the People
Planned as a people-first Smart City, Amaravati’s defining features include:
- Integrated Navigation Canals
- The city’s landscape incorporates canals designed for eco-friendly transportation, connecting various neighborhoods and culminating at an island on the Krishna River.
- These canals also serve aesthetic and ecological purposes, enhancing the city’s appeal.
- Eco-Conscious Design
- 51% of Amaravati’s area is reserved for green spaces, such as parks and nature reserves.
- Another 10% comprises water bodies, maintaining a balance between urbanization and natural preservation.
- Sustainable Urban Principles
- In alignment with Singapore-inspired plans, Amaravati’s layout emphasizes energy efficiency, effective public transport systems, and livability, ensuring it ranks among the world’s most citizen-friendly cities.
- These principles aim to fulfill the vision of Amaravati as India’s happiest city.
Financial Strategy
The development of Amaravati is notable for its unique financing model:
- Self-Financed Model: Unlike traditional models heavily reliant on government expenditure, Amaravati’s development leans on revenues from:
- Land sales for development projects
- Local taxes
- Loan-based capital raised through CRDA bonds
- Projected Costs and Returns:
- Total construction cost: ₹553.43 billion.
- Government contribution: ₹126 billion, repayable after 2037.
- Anticipated annual revenue: ₹120 billion (with State GST alone accounting for ₹60 billion per annum).
This innovative approach projects a net surplus of ₹333 billion by 2037, ensuring Amaravati’s construction is cost-effective and self-sustaining.
Ambitious Infrastructure Plans
Amaravati features world-class facilities aimed at reshaping Andhra Pradesh’s urban landscape:
- Amaravati Government Complex:
- Designed to house administrative offices, this complex embodies architectural and functional excellence.
- It is part of the broader CRDA initiative, funded alongside the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) for ₹140 billion.
- Transportation Networks:
Amaravati integrates futuristic transportation options:- BRTS: Direct connectivity between Amaravati, Vijayawada, and Guntur.
- High-Speed Circular Rail:
- Spanning 105 km to connect Amaravati with neighboring cities.
- Estimated cost: ₹10,000 crore.
- Circular Metro Rail:
- A 100 km route linking Vijayawada, Guntur, and Tenali, complementing road networks for smooth inter-city commutes.
- Monorails and Tramways: Considered to further augment the city’s urban mobility.
Specialized Urban Clusters
To promote industry and attract investments, Amaravati’s master plan includes nine themed cities focused on sectors like:
- Finance
- Justice
- Health
- Sports
- Media
- Electronics
Key partnerships with major corporations:
- Reliance Group
- NRDC-India
- HCL Technologies
- BRS Medicity, among others
Together, these specialized hubs aim to generate economic growth, employment, and technological innovation.
Concerns and Criticism
Amaravati has faced several criticisms and challenges during its planning and execution:
- Resource Consumption:
- Critics worry that construction will require large energy and resource investments, potentially endangering local ecosystems.
- Impact on Local Communities:
- Livelihood disruptions due to land acquisitions and urbanization have sparked resistance from certain groups.
- Balancing Livability and Sustainability:
- While planners focus on ecological harmony, ensuring equity for displaced communities remains a contentious topic.
Amaravati’s planners have iteratively addressed these challenges by proposing alternate plans to mitigate socio-economic disruptions.
Amaravati’s Construction and Development
The development of Amaravati as a modern capital city has been a highly ambitious and politically significant project for the state of Andhra Pradesh. Initially conceptualized as a world-class smart city, Amaravati was intended to become a model urban center in India.
Key Partners and Project Phases
- Government Collaborations:
Singapore-based consortium Ascendas-Singbridge and Sembcorp Development were appointed to design and build the infrastructure for Amaravati. The project was anticipated to unfold over 7-8 years, involving significant planning and resources.
- Phases of Construction:
The initial phases were aimed at building central administrative complexes, residential areas, infrastructure, and public amenities. Each phase was expected to focus on a specific aspect of the city—such as business hubs, educational institutions, and environmental parks.
Financial Investment in Amaravati Construction
The state government committed a massive budget, initially set at ₹33,000 crore to develop this ultra-modern capital. The capital expenditures were supported by:
- Loans and Bonds:
₹7,500 crore were raised through loans from HUDCO, alongside contributions from the World Bank and the Indian Government. - Alternative Financing Model:
A self-financing model through land sales was adopted for long-term sustainability. The capital region development authority (CRDA) anticipated earning ₹120 billion per year from taxes, land revenue, and other sources, contributing to the repayment of loans.
CRDA’s planning was focused on establishing multi-use zones, including nine themed cities for diverse sectors like finance, education, healthcare, and sports. This diverse mix of sectors was expected to bolster the city’s role as a hub for global businesses.
The Economy of Amaravati: From Agrarian to Urban Landscape
Amaravati’s transition from an agricultural economy to an urban economy is a cornerstone of its development. The creation of the capital city spurred a drastic change in the way the region would function economically.
Future Prospects and Growth Drivers
- Business and Financial District:
One of the focal points of Amaravati’s development is the establishment of a global business center. International tech companies and industries, including the likes of HCL Technologies, Pi Data Centre, and the Reliance Group, are major proposed investors in the region. These developments aim to generate employment and bring in foreign investment. - Technological Innovations:
With the creation of a high-tech industry zone, the government aims to make Amaravati a hub for IT and technology-driven businesses, similar to cities like Bangalore and Hyderabad.
Amaravati’s Education Hub: Building a Knowledge City
The role of education in Amaravati’s growth cannot be understated. Several prestigious academic institutions and research centers have either begun construction or been proposed for establishment within the city:
- National Institute of Design (NID):
- An important institute, NID will contribute to both design education and related innovation industries.
- SRM University, VIT (Vellore Institute of Technology), Amrita University, and Amity University:
These are key players in bringing higher education excellence to Amaravati, especially in the fields of engineering, technology, management, and healthcare. - Healthcare Education:
A collaboration with King’s College London through the Indo-UK Institute of Health (IUIH) would address the need for specialized healthcare education and foster research-driven medical innovations in public health. - Business Schools:
The Xavier School of Management and the presence of World-Class Management Institutes aim to provide leadership talent and entrepreneurial skills to India and beyond.
Tourism and Cultural Legacy: From Temples to Modern Attractions
Amaravati’s tourism industry is a combination of rich historical significance and modern development. The planned city already boasts several heritage sites and modern infrastructure dedicated to promoting tourism. Here are the key tourist attractions:
Religious Sites and Temples
- Amaralingeswara Swamy Temple:
- A famous Shiva temple that dates back to ancient times, acting as a religious and cultural landmark in the region.
- Buddhist Heritage:
- The Amaravati Stupa is one of the most significant ancient monuments representing the Buddhist legacy in India.
- Dhyana Buddha Statue:
- Standing as one of the largest in the world, this statue symbolizes the region’s deep spiritual roots and is set to attract thousands of visitors annually.
Cultural Attractions
- Undavalli Caves:
- These rock-cut caves with intricate carvings will likely be a prominent spot for tourists keen on ancient architecture and historical exploration.
State-of-the-Art Transport: Enhancing Connectivity
Connectivity is at the heart of Amaravati’s long-term plan, with roads, railways, and airports being developed to cater to both daily commuters and international travelers.
Road Networks
- Vijayawada-Amaravati Road and Seed Capital Road are major arteries designed to connect Amaravati to nearby cities and national highways such as NH16. These roads would provide streamlined access for business and residential movements across the region.
- The planned Amaravati-Anantapur Expressway will ensure faster connectivity between Amaravati and other major cities in the state.
Mass Transport Plans
- Metro Rail:
A proposed metro rail system between Vijayawada, Guntur, and Tenali, spanning 100 km, would ease transportation in one of the fastest growing urban corridors in the country. - Monorail & Bus Rapid Transit (BRTS):
The BRTS, alongside plans for a monorail, will ensure eco-friendly transportation options that reduce traffic congestion and pollution.
Railway Expansion
- A proposed Errupalem-Amaravati-Nambur railway line would provide connectivity for commuters and freight, linking the new city with established routes in Guntur and Vijayawada.
Air Connectivity
- Vijayawada International Airport serves as the key air transport hub for the entire capital region.
Sports Infrastructure and Global Events
Amaravati hosted the prestigious F1H2O World Championship Grand Prix in November 2018, marking the city’s bid to establish itself as a sports hub for the region. This event garnered extensive media coverage and brought attention to Amaravati’s potential for international sporting events.
The Popularization of Amaravati in Media and Culture
Amaravati’s progress and challenges have found their way into popular culture, such as in the movie Raajadhani Files. The film draws inspiration from the city’s political and development journey, highlighting its formation, political conflicts, and local disputes. This shows Amaravati’s reach beyond politics into wider cultural narratives in India.
Conclusion:
The future of Amaravati lies in its ability to overcome current challenges and realize the grand vision of becoming a sustainable, smart city. With continued support from the government, private investment, and its commitment to global standards of living, Amaravati has the potential to become a major urban center that balances modern development with its cultural and historical significance.
By integrating smart city features, green technologies, and advanced infrastructure, Amaravati’s future will not only be about becoming India’s foremost urban center, but also one that is internationally recognized for innovation, sustainability, and livability.
