Transport Minister meets Central officials with a plea for immediate approvals for State projects

Andhra Pradesh Transport, Sports and Youth Affairs Minister M. Rampasad Reddy met senior officials of the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the Sports Authority of India (SAI) and Khelo India in New Delhi on Friday, seeking support for key State projects.

At Transport Bhavan, he sought swift approvals for major road works, including four-laning of the Kadapa Rayachoti stretch of National Highway 40 for inclusion in the 2026-27 annual plan and early clearance for the 950-metre Guvvala Cheruvu tunnel project.

Discussions also covered the ₹500-crore Tirupati Inter Modal Bus Terminal, which has received partial approval. Officials said 26 firms had participated in the design competition for preparation of the Detailed Project Report, and the proposals were under evaluation. Stressing the need to expedite transport infrastructure development, Mr. Rampasad Reddy urged early execution to provide modern facilities in Tirupati.

The Minister also met Deputy Director General of the Sports Authority of India and Khelo India, Mayank Srivastava, to strengthen the sports ecosystem in Andhra Pradesh. Proposals included organisation of women’s athletics events in every district under the Asmita scheme, SAI funded sports competitions from district to State level, implementation of the Sunday on Cycle fitness programme every Sunday, increasing the number of coaches and enhancing the overall sports budget.

Mr. Srivastava assured full support for sports development in the State and informed the Minister that he would visit Andhra Pradesh in this regard.