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Andhra Pradesh, January 8:
Hire bus owners attached to the Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation have announced a statewide strike starting January 12, citing rising operational costs and inadequate compensation. The operators claimed that increased fuel prices, maintenance expenses, and staff wages have made operations financially unviable under the current reimbursement structure. They demanded a revision in payments to reflect actual operating costs and warned that services would be suspended if their concerns are not addressed.

Transport officials acknowledged the issue and said efforts are underway to hold discussions with the bus owners to resolve the dispute. The proposed strike could impact public transportation across the state, particularly affecting daily commuters, students, and rural passengers. Authorities have urged both sides to engage in dialogue to avoid inconvenience to the public and ensure continuity of transport services.

Andhra Pradesh, January 8:
The India Meteorological Department has forecast moderate rainfall across several districts of Andhra Pradesh over the next few days due to the formation of a low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal. Weather officials indicated that the system could intensify, bringing intermittent showers ahead of the Sankranti festival. Coastal and interior regions are expected to experience cloudy conditions, with authorities closely monitoring the situation to issue timely advisories.

Officials urged farmers, fishermen, and residents in low-lying areas to remain alert, as sudden rainfall may affect harvesting activities and transportation. Disaster management teams have been placed on standby to respond to any weather-related emergencies. While the rainfall could benefit rabi crops in certain regions, authorities emphasised the need for caution to minimise disruptions during the festive season.

Vijayawada, January 8:
Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) has launched a new houseboat tourism experience on the Krishna River in Vijayawada, marking a significant expansion of river-based tourism in the state. The initiative aims to offer visitors a unique leisure experience by combining scenic river views with modern hospitality facilities. Officials said the project has been introduced under a public-private partnership model and includes well-equipped houseboats and floating dining facilities operating along select stretches of the Krishna River, particularly near iconic landmarks such as Prakasam Barrage and Pavitra Sangam.

Tourism officials stated that the new service is designed to boost local tourism, generate employment, and attract visitors during major festivals and holiday seasons. The houseboats are expected to operate on scheduled slots, offering sunrise and sunset cruises along with overnight stay options. Authorities believe the initiative will strengthen Vijayawada’s position as a key tourism hub in Andhra Pradesh while promoting sustainable tourism practices. Plans are also underway to expand the project in phases by introducing additional boats and enhanced luxury features based on public response.

Amaravati, January 8:
Andhra Pradesh is gearing up for its first large-scale Republic Day celebrations in Amaravati, with senior officials reviewing extensive preparations to mark the occasion in a grand and dignified manner. Chief Secretary K. Vijayanand directed departments to coordinate closely to ensure seamless arrangements covering sanitation, drinking water, traffic regulation, security deployment, and emergency medical services. Special attention is being given to parade logistics, ceremonial arrangements, and public seating, as the event is expected to witness significant participation from officials, guests, and citizens.

Authorities have also instructed various departments to design thematic tableaux highlighting key welfare initiatives, development programmes, and cultural heritage of the state. Government buildings, including the State Secretariat and Assembly complex, are being illuminated and decorated to enhance the visual appeal of the celebrations. Officials said the event aims to showcase Andhra Pradesh’s administrative vision, cultural identity, and development aspirations, while ensuring public safety and smooth conduct, reflecting the state’s renewed focus on establishing Amaravati as its administrative and ceremonial capital.

New Delhi / Vijayawada, January 8:
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Thursday met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi and urged the Centre to grant statutory status to Amaravati by introducing a bill in Parliament, describing the move as crucial for the long-term growth and stability of the state’s capital region. Naidu underlined that formal parliamentary recognition would reinforce investor confidence, provide policy certainty and accelerate infrastructure and development projects in Amaravati. He also pressed for flexibility in Centre-State funding ratios and additional financial support to ease the fiscal burden on Andhra Pradesh, underscoring concerns related to implementation of the new VB-G-RAM-G scheme and its financial implications for the state. The discussions also covered ongoing welfare programmes and key development priorities to bolster sustainable growth.