Law Minister and TDP nominee for the Machilipatnam Assembly segment K. Ravindra on Wednesday kick-started the campaign from Pedda Karagraharam highlighting his achievements during his tenure, after offering prayers at a dargah.
“Formation of Machilipatnam Urban Development Authority and launching of port works stand testimony to my contribution for development of the Machilipatnam constituency,” claimed Mr. Ravindra. A a law graduate, he continues to be the voice of fisherfolk in Krishna district and tries his luck for the second time.
“The fisherfolk villages to be rehabilitated for the Machilipatnam port will get the due benefit. In Machilipatnam town, construction of a township (G+3) that is in progress for housing facility and mini stadium projects speak of my efforts for all-round development,” he said.
Major issues
While the Minister focuses on his achievements, there are several issues in the constituency. The 252-crore Gilakaladindi harbour expansion project remains a non-starter resulting in bleak prospects for the maritime trade operations from the Machilipatnam coast.
The boat operators are being forced to rely upon the harbour facility on the coasts of Prakasam and East Godavari in the absence of revival of the existing harbour. The entrance point of Gilakaladindi harbour from the sea has been closed due to deposition of sand, requiring to take up dredging and expansion of the harbour.
In the Machilipatnam rural, farmers are still in the grip of fear that the TDP may acquire thousands of acres of private land for the Machilipatnam Industrial Corridor for which land acquisition notification will be in force for three years.
On the other hand, Mr. Ravindra’s rival and YSRCP contestant Perni Venkataramaih, known as Nani, is likely to get the support of his own community Kapu. Dalits too are likely to stand behind him.
Jana Sena impact
Meanwhile, the Jana Sena Party is reportedly fielding Bandi Ramakrishna, known as RK, for the assembly segment. He is known in the fields of hospitality and education. Making a debut into politics, he is likely to get a chunk of votes from Kapu and Christian communities.
