9. Amaravati’s Rise, Fall, and Rebirth: Lessons from a Mega Project

Amaravati’s journey has been marked by ambition, setbacks, and revival. After its selection as Andhra Pradesh’s capital in 2014, massive development began but was abruptly halted in 2019 due to political changes and the proposal for three capitals. This led to stalled projects, withdrawal of international funding, and rising costs. Many structures were left incomplete, and legal disputes further delayed progress. However, with renewed government commitment in 2024, development has restarted, supported by significant funding from the central government and global banks. Challenges remain, including clearing overgrown land, reviving infrastructure, and addressing legal and financial hurdles. Amaravati’s story underscores the importance of political stability, transparent planning, and sustained investment for the success of large-scale urban projects.