Amaravati Expansion Hits Roadblock as Farmers Seek Better Deals
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The Andhra Pradesh government's plans to acquire over 16,000 acres of land for the expansion of Amaravati, the state's capital region, have hit a snag. The second phase of land pooling, aimed at acquiring 16,666.57 acres in seven villages, is facing resistance from farmers who are demanding better compensation and guarantees on social infrastructure. According to sources, the state cabinet approved the acquisition of land in November, but farmers are raising several queries and putting forth major demands. While a majority of farmers have no objection to giving their land, they are apprehensive about the project due to practical issues faced in the first phase, which was completed 10 years ago. Farmers are seeking enhanced annual lease amounts, clearer guarantees on social infrastructure, including education and healthcare, and bigger residential plots compared to the first phase. They are also asking for loan waivers, as many have outstanding agricultural loans ranging from ₹5 lakh to ₹6 lakh. A three-member committee, comprising the municipal administration minister P Narayana, Union minister of state for rural development Pemmasani Chandrasekhar, and Tadikonda MLA Shravan Kumar, has been holding meetings with farmers to address their concerns. However, the government has yet to give a concrete assurance on the demands. The farmers' demands include a minimum of ₹60,000 per acre per year for Phase-II Amaravati project, compared to the ₹30,000 per acre for dry lands and ₹50,000 per acre for fertile lands in the first phase. They are also asking for an allotment of 1,400 square yards of developed plots per acre in return for every acre of land they surrender under land pooling. The government has promised to examine the demand for loan waivers and provide a solution. However, the farmers are seeking explicit clarity on what medical facilities will be accessible once their lands fall within the capital development zone, and what educational opportunities will be available to their children. The development of the pooled land is also a major concern, with farmers seeking a timeline of three years or less for completion. The standoff between the government and farmers has put the Amaravati expansion project in jeopardy, with the government facing pressure to meet the farmers' demands. The outcome of the negotiations will determine the fate of the project and the future of the capital region.
