Capital Conundrum: Andhra Pradesh Operates Sans a Defined Capital

Andhra Pradesh finds itself in a unique administrative situation since the bifurcation in 2014, where it currently operates without a designated capital city. Originally sharing Hyderabad with Telangana as a temporary solution, Andhra Pradesh has since struggled to establish a permanent capital.

Amaravathi, situated in Guntur district on the banks of the River Krishna, was initially planned to be the state’s capital following its bifurcation. the then Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu envisioned a futuristic city with an estimated budget of ₹51,000 crore, engaging Singapore-based firms for its development. However, after a change in leadership in 2019, the new government led by YS Jagan Mohan Reddy halted the project, leading to legal complexities and budget reductions that caused delays.

With recent political developments, including Chandrababu Naidu’s return to power, there is renewed optimism about Amaravathi’s revival as the state’s capital. Naidu has reaffirmed his commitment to completing the capital city swiftly, addressing previous hurdles and seeking cooperation from the central government.

Despite these efforts, Andhra Pradesh continues to function without a definitive capital city, awaiting the completion of Amaravathi to serve as its administrative and cultural hub once again.