Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday laid the foundation stone for the Kuppam airstrip project being taken up at an estimated cost of ₹100 crore, at Vijalapuram village of Ramakuppam mandal under Kuppam Assembly constituency.
Addressing a gathering of farmers and people on the occasion, Mr. Naidu said the airstrip project would bring in a revolutionary change in the economy of the region and improve the living standards of the farmers.
He said the project, coming up in 430 acres, would help the farmers despatch cargoes of agriculture produce to faraway destinations and ensure economic viability. “The project at the tri-State junction of A.P., Karnataka and Tamil Nadu will be completed in one year on priority basis,” he said, and thanked the farmers for giving their land for the purpose.
Food processing units
Mr. Naidu, who also laid foundation stone for five food processing units and four agro-based industries coming up at a cost of ₹196 crore, said the Kuppam region would be developed into a vibrant zone to promote floriculture, horticulture, honeybee nurseries, sericulture and textiles.
The Chief minster said the much-awaited Handri Neeva Sujala Sravanti waters would be reaching PTM mandal in the western parts of the district on January 9.
Mr. Naidu observed that HNSS would put an end to the drought conditions in the region.
He observed that top priority was being given to encourage natural farming in the district.
Earlier, Mr. Naidu laid the stone for the Vijalapuram-Karnatka border road. Later, he left for Guntur by helicopter.
Industries Minister N. Amaranatha Reddy, Chittoor MP N. Siva Prasad, MLC G. Srinivasulu, district Collector P.S. Pradyumna, SP Vikrant Patil and senior party leaders were present.
