Amaravati, the proposed capital city of Andhra Pradesh, has once again become the center of controversy, not for its development progress, but for concerns over the skyrocketing land prices in the region. According to reports, the prices of land in Amaravati have been pegged at a staggering Rs 20 crore per acre, sparking outrage from critics who claim this resembles a “real estate liquidation” rather than a genuine effort to build a new administrative center.
The high land prices have raised questions about the affordability and accessibility of the city, as well as the potential for speculation and profiteering at the expense of the common people. Amaravati was envisioned as a modern, sustainable city that would serve as the administrative and economic hub of Andhra Pradesh, but the exorbitant land costs threaten to undermine these lofty goals.
Critics argue that the astronomical land prices are the result of a lack of transparency and potential cronyism in the land acquisition process. They allege that the government has favored certain individuals and entities in the land deals, leading to a situation where the common citizens are being priced out of the market.
The controversy surrounding Amaravati’s land prices is particularly concerning in light of the state’s ongoing financial challenges. Andhra Pradesh has been facing a severe economic crisis, with the government struggling to meet its financial obligations and implement developmental projects. In this context, the high land prices in Amaravati have been viewed by many as a misallocation of scarce resources that could have been better utilized for the overall welfare of the state’s residents.
The issue has also raised concerns about the sustainability and long-term viability of Amaravati as the state’s capital. If the land prices continue to soar, it could become increasingly difficult to attract businesses, residents, and infrastructure investments to the city, undermining its potential to become a thriving economic and administrative center.
As the debate over Amaravati’s future continues, it is clear that the land price issue will be a critical factor in determining the city’s trajectory. Policymakers and stakeholders will need to address the concerns raised by critics and find a balance between development and affordability to ensure that Amaravati fulfills its promise as a modern, inclusive, and sustainable capital city.
