Andhra Pradesh’s new capital will be called ‘Amaravathi’. Amaravathi means ’abode of immortals’, and is inspired by the temple town with the same name that is 32 kms from the core capital area that has been identified.
The temple town of Amaravathi is also referred as Amareswaram, for its famous Amareswara temple dedicated to Lord Siva. It was a major Buddhist centre 2,000 years ago.
The announcement was made by state Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu after the cabinet approved the name.
Naidu told media that the Cabinet has passed a resolution accepting the master plan for the capital city and further modifications will be considered if necessary.
Naidu said that the name retain the city’s historical significance, yet reflects modernity. Initially, the TDP had plans of naming the capital city after its founder leader NT Rama Rao, but apprehensions that a later government may change the name, dissuaded them.
Singapore is working in partnership with Andhra Pradesh for the development of the new state capital under a memorandum of understanding signed on December 8, 2014. Surbana International Consultants and Jurong Consultants are the master planners.
The TDP government has already acquired 33,000 acres from farmers of 26 villages to build the core capital on the banks of river Krishna. Reports suggest that the foundation stone for the capital would be laid on June 12 this year.
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