Amaravati, Dec 19 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh, N. Chandrababu Naidu, made a strong appeal to the Central Government on Friday, requesting the approval of Metro Rail projects for Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada.

During his meeting with Union Minister for Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, in New Delhi, he revealed that the updated Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for both Metro systems had been submitted to the Ministry for consideration. He stressed that swift clearance is essential to expedite the growth of these two rapidly developing urban hubs in Andhra Pradesh.

CM Naidu articulated that both Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada need efficient, modern, and sustainable urban transportation solutions to match their increasing populations, flourishing economic activities, and escalating transportation needs.

He urged the Central Minister to give priority and hasten the approval process, enabling the commencement of groundwork for both Metro projects as soon as possible.

Additionally, the Chief Minister held discussions with Union Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, seeking robust Central backing for the advancement of the Dugarajapatnam shipbuilding ecosystem and significant fishing harbor initiatives within the state.

CM Naidu expressed gratitude to the Union Government for its proactive policies aimed at bolstering India's port sector and shipbuilding capabilities. He reiterated Andhra Pradesh's commitment to contributing to the national “Chip to Ship” vision.

He informed the Union Minister that Andhra Pradesh is fully equipped to undertake the National Mega Shipbuilding and Ship Repair Cluster at Dugarajapatnam, mentioning that the state has already allocated 3,488 acres of land for this project and that the Techno–Economic Feasibility Report (TEFR) has been completed.

During this meeting, he also requested the Centre to provide additional financial support for the state's fishing harbor infrastructure, emphasizing the government's commitment to enhancing the livelihoods of fishermen and modernizing the fisheries sector.

Furthermore, CM Naidu met with Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, to formally invite him to the foundation-laying ceremony of the BPCL Greenfield Refinery Project proposed for Nellore district.

He informed the Union Minister that this refinery, with a staggering investment of Rs 96,862 crore, is set to become one of the largest integrated energy projects in India, significantly boosting the country's refining capacity and enhancing national energy security.

CM Naidu highlighted that the State Government has allocated 6,000 acres for this project and has offered attractive incentives to ensure its rapid implementation.

He also briefed the Union Minister that the public hearing for environmental clearance has been successfully concluded, and environmental approvals are anticipated soon, facilitating swift progress through the remaining stages of the project.