In a significant statement regarding Nellore's infrastructure development, State Municipal Administration Minister Dr. Ponguru Narayana has publicly stated that the city does not currently require an Outer Ring Road (ORR). This position marks a clear difference of opinion with the Nellore Urban Development Authority (NUDA) chief, Kotamreddy Srinivasulu Reddy.
Flyover Renovation Takes Precedence Over New ORR
The minister's comments came on Sunday after he inaugurated the recently relaid flyover near the Atmakur bus stand in Nellore. Dr. Narayana highlighted the history of the flyover, noting that it was originally conceived by then Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in 1995 and was inaugurated in 1999.
He pointed out a critical lapse in maintenance, revealing that no repair works had been undertaken on the flyover in the 25 years since its inauguration. This prolonged neglect had rendered the structure hazardous for daily commuters. "Taking the concerns of locals into account, we initiated repair works and completed relaying the entire flyover road within 45 days," Dr. Narayana told reporters.
A ₹3000 Crore Project Deferred
While assuring citizens that more road and bridge repair works would be taken up soon to ease traffic congestion, the minister firmly addressed the proposed Outer Ring Road. He reiterated that the massive ORR project, estimated to cost around ₹3,000 crore, could wait for now.
This stance directly contrasts with the vision of NUDA chief Kotamreddy Srinivasulu Reddy, who has been a proponent of the ORR for Nellore's long-term urban planning and traffic decongestion. The minister's assertion places immediate, critical repairs ahead of large-scale new construction for the time being.
Focus Shifts to Immediate Civic Repairs
Dr. Narayana expressed confidence that the recently completed and upcoming repair works would significantly alleviate the city's traffic woes. His participation in several other programs in Nellore city throughout the day underscored the government's current focus on revitalizing existing infrastructure.
The decision signals a strategic shift in priorities for Nellore's urban development, at least in the short term. The government appears to be channeling resources and attention towards fixing aging and dangerous structures before embarking on expensive new projects like the Outer Ring Road.
