Seems like the Andhra Pradesh government is least bothered about the recommendations of Sivaramakrishnan committee and zeroed upon the capital city of the new AP. Yes, it is without any doubt, Vijayawada, Mangalagiri, Tenali and Guntur cities will be the capital of AP state and the cabinet too gave a formal nod.

AP CM Chandrababu Naidu was supposed to make a statement on the capital in the Assembly today but reportedly postponed due to unknown reasons. However, on Thursday, the announcement is set to arrive at any cost added the government sources. A circular has also been issued to all the departments to give their requirements for office spaces in Vijayawada and Guntur surroundings.

From the beginning, Chandrababu was in favor of Vijayawada and gave hints too at certain occasions. But the AP government waited for Committee to submit its report to the Union government and then officially announce the capital city. AP government will also send a report to the Union government and Planning Commission explaining the budget to construct the capital. According to the insiders, AP government is estimating a budget of Rs 1.36 lakh crores for the construction of the capital. In fact this is much less than what Sivaramakrishnan committee suggested.

(AW: Vamshi)