Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is contemplating a mission mode to promote tourism in Andhra Pradesh in a big way. Grooming of destinations identified as places with high tourism potential will assimilate in the development of a world-class capital of the residuary State, claim officials of the AP Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC).
The castles and forts steeped in history and legends, famous temples thronged by pilgrims visiting from far-flung areas and picturesque locations dotting the Andhra Pradesh landscape are all set to get a facelift.
To take its mega plans to people across the State, the Government intends to use World Tourism Day on September 27 as a platform to publicise the string of projects proposed to be taken up in the 13 districts of A.P.
“This year’s Tourism Day celebrations will go beyond a few competitions and pan over the 13 districts. We will make our plans known to people through the festivities,” says G.N. Rao of APTDC’s Archaeology Wing.
Plans are afoot to integrate the department of archaeology, endowments and culture with tourism for a desired result. On the priority list of historic forts are places like Kondapalli fort near Vijayawada and Kondaveedu fort in Guntur district. Religious tourism is set to get an equal share of attention as destinations like Kotappakonda shrine are being considered for the big development plan.
The long-neglected Undavalli caves in the suburban areas of Vijayawada will also get their due share of recognition. The Kolleru area is yet another place on the tourism radar.
Talking of creating tourism circuits showcasing the rich culture and history of this region, Mr. Rao says Victoria museum, an important monument will get its share of limelight. “The land for this museum was donated by Nuzvid jamindars and the fact that the national flag was launched from this point, lends great significance to the place,” he says. Since many museums were lost to Telangana State post-bifurcation, the Government is keen on developing museums in Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam and Tirupati.
This is in addition to the proposed mini-museums at Kakinada and a few other places, he informed, adding that besides beautification, thrust is on employment generation.
