Cooperation Among Southern States Is the Goal: Chandrababu Naidu

Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu has called for stronger cooperation among southern states and faster resolution of issues between the Centre and the states. Speaking at the Southern Zonal Council meeting, he proposed a bullet train connecting Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, with the route passing through Kuppam. He also called for an integrated transport system connecting Amaravati, Bengaluru and Chennai. Naidu stressed the need for swift action on pending bifurcation-related issues and sought greater central support for the Polavaram project and the South Coast Railway Zone. He also urged the Centre to approve metro rail projects for Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada.

Naidu emphasised the importance of coordination among southern states over river-water resources. He said the Godavari-Cauvery river-linking project could help address Tamil Nadu’s water requirements and called for a coordinated approach among southern states on river-water management. He also sought a national plan for the Ganga-Cauvery link, with detailed project reports and clearances to be processed within fixed timelines. In addition, Naidu proposed establishing a spiritual tourism circuit connecting Tirupati with Kashi, Ayodhya and the Char Dham pilgrimage destinations.