Andhra Pradesh Proposes Privatization of Rural Roads

Delhi's air quality remains severely poor, with the 24-hour average Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 419 on Wednesday, a slight improvement from 444 the previous day, but still categorized as 'severe.' This comes after a near-record AQI of nearly 500 was reported on Monday, the second-worst since tracking began in 2015. In Andhra Pradesh, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu proposed a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model to improve rural road infrastructure, suggesting that private firms would construct and maintain roads while collecting tolls from commercial vehicles. A pilot project for this initiative will be launched in the Godavari districts, with the plan contingent on public feedback and support from local MLAs. Naidu emphasized that while heavy vehicles would incur toll charges, local vehicles like autos and bikes would be exempt, aiming to enhance rural connectivity amidst financial constraints. He acknowledged the challenges of funding infrastructure but expressed confidence that improved roads could significantly benefit rural communities.