The Andhra Pradesh Government is taking quick steps to put the unused Rushikonda Palace to productive use. The massive building, once built by the previous YSR Congress government, is costing the state nearly ₹25 lakh each month in electricity and maintenance. Earlier, the same land earned ₹7 crore annually through tourism-related facilities.
On Sunday, the government issued advertisements in major newspapers seeking public suggestions on how to use the palace effectively. Citizens have been asked to email tourism-oriented ideas within seven days. The initiative aims to turn the building into a revenue-generating public asset.
In addition, the government has invited leading national and international hospitality operators to a consultation meeting in Vijayawada on October 17. These operators have been asked to submit proposals, concept plans, or letters of intent during the session. All the suggestions will later be reviewed by a Cabinet Subcommittee, which will prepare a detailed report for the government.
Officials also stated that about seven acres of adjoining land will be included if a strong proposal comes through. The move comes after the new government exposed the palace, revealing how ₹500 crore of public funds were used to build what critics describe as a luxury mansion for Jagan Mohan Reddy and his wife.
Opposition leaders allege that Jagan constructed the sea-facing structure believing he would remain in power. They argue that no government should spend ₹500 crore of taxpayer money on a personal retreat under the guise of a public building. The current administration now wants to ensure the property generates revenue instead of wasting public funds.
