Naidu Races to Delhi: Metro, Beach Corridor Top Agenda in Modi Meet

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu is set to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi to seek approval for the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail and Beach Corridor projects, along with special assistance for drought relief and Central support for next year's Godavari Pushkarams.

The meeting comes as Andhra Pradesh pushes for accelerated infrastructure development in its coastal hub of Visakhapatnam, which is being positioned as the state's executive capital. The Metro Rail and Beach Corridor projects are expected to boost tourism and urban mobility, but require Central clearances and funding. The state is also grappling with drought conditions, and the Godavari Pushkarams, a major religious and cultural event held once every 12 years, will require significant logistical and financial support from the Centre.

The outcome of the meeting will be closely watched for signals on Centre-State cooperation, especially in the context of Andhra Pradesh's long-standing demand for special category status. Approval of these projects could set a precedent for other states seeking similar assistance. The meeting is expected to take place in the coming days, with officials from both sides working to finalize the agenda.