APTDC sets pace for Shilparamam project

The objective is to protect traditional crafts that abound the region. An area of 20 acres has been earmarked for the purpose, and the Centre has released funds under the 13th Finance Commission.

A view of Bhavani Island from Indrakeeladri in Vijayawada. Photo: V.Raju

With the objective of creating a conducive environment for traditional crafts that abound this region, the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) is speeding up the implementation of the proposed Shilparamam project at the picturesque Bhavani Island.

“We want to set the pace for the project by calling tenders in a week or 10 days,” V. Madhusudan, Executive Director, APTDC (Projects), said on Monday.

A team comprising APTDC Special Chief Secretary Chandana Khan and other officials visited the island a fortnight ago for demarcation of land for the crafts village. The team also assessed the ground situation for launching the Rs. 5 crore-project, which includes the long-pending swimming pool. “A swimming pool will also be developed alongside,” said Mr. Madhusudan.

An area of 20 acres has been earmarked for the purpose, and the Centre has released funds under the 13th Finance Commission. The new facility is aimed at popularising arts and crafts by the rural folks of the region and will be developed on the lines of the existing crafts villages at Kadapa, Tirupati and Visakhapatnam.

The introduction of a houseboat in Krishna river is another project component. “We intend to propose this new addition in the State budget,” said Mr. Madhusudan.

The Konaseema-Papikondalu-Bhadrachalam circuit in East Godavari district, is proposed to be developed at an estimated cost of Rs. 46 crore. “This project will be shared by both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. A part of it will be in Telangana, while the river circuit will be handled by Andhra Pradesh. We propose to build cottages, jetties and introduce houseboats. The funds will be divided between the two States, with Rs. 30 lakh for Andhra Pradesh and Rs. 16 lakh for Telangana,” he said.

Meanwhile, the authorities have called tenders for houseboats. “We’ll close the bids soon and from three months from now, the houseboats will be operational,” Mr. Madhusudan said.

The Visakhapatnam-Bheemli beach corridor project, the proposed circuit in Srikakulam area, the Kalingapatnam temple circuit, a beach resort at Chintapalli in Vizianagaram and a budget hotel at Arasavalli are other projects of the Corporation.