The Andhra Pradesh government started functioning from the Interim Secretariat Complex in Amaravati on Wednesday with two Ministers occupying their chambers, followed by their staff.
An air of festivity prevailed on the premises of the IGC, 20 km from Vijayawada. Building No. 5 was a hub of activity with two Ministers performing the traditional housewarming ceremonies in the presence of hundreds of Secretariat employees. The air was thick with a sense of excitement and anticipation as the employees sounded optimistic that they would overcome obstacles as they start working from the new Capital.
Minister for Panchayat Raj Ch. Ayanna Patrudu and Minister for Housing K. Mrinalini, who also holds the Labour portfolio, occupied their chambers on the ground floor of the building in the presence of their secretaries.
Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister N. Chinarajappa, Ministers Devineni Umamaheswara Rao (Irrigation), P. Pulla Rao (Agriculture), K. Ravindra (Excise), and Ravela Kishore Babu (Social Welfare) went around the offices meeting the employees. Four ministerial chambers and an air-conditioned office chamber for employees had been readied for Wednesday. Health and Medical Minister, Kamineni Srinivas could not make it as he was held up in New Delhi.
‘Credit goes to CM’
“The record span in which the temporary Secretariat is taking shape is proof of the ability of the Chief Minister. The government will be more accessible to people from today,’’ said Mr. Chinarajappa.
Chief Secretary S.P Tucker said the departments would start functioning from Velagapudi soon. Allotment of office space would begin on Thursday and the exercise would be completed in a day or two. The departments would start functioning fully from July 6.
“We will ensure the basic infrastructure like access roads, drinking water and drainage is put in place by August 15. We are happy that the employees are determined to start working from the new Capital,’’ said Mr. Tucker.
In the coming few weeks, as many as 8,650 employees belonging to 118 departments are expected to move into the Capital region.
The employees, including women, looked excited as well. “Our families have been anxious about our safety, and the government promised to provide accommodation to all single employees in the Rain Tree Park. We have also been assured of round-the-clock security,’’ said section officer of the General Administration Department, Satya Sulochana.
