Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone and inaugurated various development projects on Wednesday, valued at over ₹2 lakh crore, in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
Addressing the gathering, the Prime Minister described Andhra Pradesh as a state full of opportunities and possibilities. He underlined that the state’s development is closely tied to India’s progress, with a goal for Andhra Pradesh to become a $2.5 trillion economy by 2047.
A major highlight of the visit was the announcement of plans to establish Andhra Pradesh as a hub for advanced technologies. Visakhapatnam will host one of the two green hydrogen hubs planned under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, which was launched in 2023. The project, led by NTPC Green Energy Limited, is estimated to involve an investment of ₹1,85,000 crore. It will support the production of green hydrogen and derivatives, contributing to India’s renewable energy capacity targets and creating a manufacturing ecosystem in the state.
The Prime Minister also laid the foundation for the South Coast Railway Zone headquarters in Visakhapatnam. This long-awaited project is expected to boost agriculture, trade, tourism, and regional economic activity. He noted that Andhra Pradesh has achieved 100% railway electrification and outlined improvements under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Seven Vande Bharat trains are currently operational in the state to enhance connectivity.
Another project announced was the Krishnapatnam Industrial Area, a greenfield industrial city under the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor in Tirupati district. The project is set to attract investments of approximately ₹10,500 crore and generate significant employment. It aims to integrate with other industrial corridors to strengthen regional growth.
In healthcare and pharmaceuticals, the Prime Minister laid the foundation for a Bulk Drug Park in Anakapalli district. This facility will support economic activity through its proximity to the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor and other industrial regions.
The infrastructure initiatives also included road and rail connectivity projects valued at ₹19,500 crore, aimed at reducing congestion and enhancing regional economic growth. Visakhapatnam was noted to be among the few cities globally advancing green hydrogen production, which aligns with the government’s focus on non-fossil fuel-based energy.