AMRIT SAMVAAD HELD AT VIZIANAGARAM AND KORAPUT STATIONS TO BOOST PASSENGER ENGAGEMENT Continuing its proactive outreach initiative, the Waltair Division of East Coast Railway conducted Amrit Samvaad programmes today at Vizianagaram and Koraput railway stations. The events witnessed active participation from passengers, representatives of local associations, and senior railway officials. The initiative, part of the nationwide Amrit Samvaad campaign, aims to strengthen engagement between Indian Railways and its passengers by gathering direct feedback on services, amenities, and future improvements. Vizianagaram Station: Focus on Citizen Participation in Nation-Building At Vizianagaram, Additional Divisional Railway Manager (Infrastructure) Shri E. Santharam graced the occasion as Chief Guest. In his address, Shri Santharam highlighted the importance of the Prime Minister’s ‘Panch Pran’ vision, calling upon citizens to actively contribute to the nation’s development during Amrit Kaal. He stated that platforms like Amrit Samvaad serve a dual purpose: fostering transparent dialogue with passengers and guiding the development of improved station amenities and passenger-centric services. Senior Divisional Engineer (East), Shri Sairaj also attended and engaged with the audience on ongoing infrastructure and service initiatives. Koraput Station: Open Dialogue for Better Services At Koraput, the programme was led by Additional Divisional Railway Manager (Operations) Shri K. Rama Rao, who emphasized that Amrit Samvaad is a valuable platform to understand the needs and expectations of passengers. “Open and constructive communication helps us serve better. Your feedback helps us recognize what’s working and what needs attention,” Shri Rama Rao said. Senior Divisional Electrical Engineer Shri MSN Murty was also present, interacting directly with passengers to address their suggestions and concerns. Passenger Feedback Highlights Need for Basic Amenities During the sessions at both locations, passengers shared suggestions on improving: Cleanliness and hygiene Availability of quality and affordable food Access to waiting halls on all platforms Free and well-maintained toilet facilities Railway officials assured participants that their feedback was being noted for appropriate follow-up action and would be considered in planning future improvements under schemes like the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme.

DRM CONDUCTS ''AMRIT SAMVAAD'' WITH CIVIL ENGINEERING STAKEHOLDERS IN WALTAIR DIVISION In a move to enhance coordination and foster stronger partnerships in infrastructure development, Divisional Railway Manager (DRM) Shri Lalit Bohra convened an Amrit Samvaad with civil engineering customers, engineers, and contractors at the DRM’s Conference Hall, Waltair Division. The interactive session was aimed at deepening engagement between the Railways and its key civil stakeholders involved in project execution, infrastructure upgrades, and maintenance across the division. Focus on Infrastructure, Safety, and Quality During the session, detailed discussions were held on a range of topics, including: Progress of ongoing infrastructure development projects Implementation of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme Ongoing maintenance works across the division Safety protocols and quality standards in project execution DRM Shri Lalit Bohra encouraged open dialogue, seeking feedback from the participants on challenges at the field level, and discussed solutions to enhance execution efficiency and safety. Also present was Senior Divisional Engineer (Coordination) Shri A.K. Moharana, who provided technical insights and updates on various ongoing and upcoming projects under the engineering department. Emphasis on Accountability and Timely Delivery Shri Bohra underlined the importance of strict adherence to safety norms, quality control, and timely completion of works. He urged all contractors and civil partners to uphold the highest standards of transparency, accountability, and professional integrity, in alignment with the goals of the Amrit Bharat vision. “Quality and safety must remain our top priorities as we advance with critical infrastructure works. Every project must reflect our commitment to excellence and public service,” he said. The DRM also reaffirmed the division''s commitment to working collaboratively with all stakeholders to ensure the successful and sustainable development of the railway network in the region.

SAKHI SURAKSHA SCHEME LAUNCHED FOR URBAN SHG WOMEN IN VIZAG The Andhra Pradesh government has launched a new health-focused initiative called “Sakhi Suraksha” aimed at empowering and safeguarding the health of urban women involved in Self-Help Groups (SHGs) across Visakhapatnam city. Launched under the state’s larger Arogya Andhra mission, the scheme will provide free comprehensive health screenings for SHG women aged 35 years and above, with special attention to chronic diseases, cancers, mental health, and nutritional issues. According to officials, Sakhi Suraksha will benefit thousands of women who are part of urban SHGs, enabling early detection of health problems and timely treatment. The program is currently active in multiple urban areas including Gajuwaka, Anakapalli, Madhurawada, Bheemunipatnam, Pendurthi, and Gnanapuram. Key Features of the Scheme Free health check-ups for women aged 35+ from urban SHGs Screening for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as hypertension, diabetes, thyroid, and cancers Mental health assessments and counseling support Nutritional evaluation and diet guidance Health awareness campaigns to promote lifestyle changes The program is being implemented through Urban Primary Health Centres (UPHCs) in coordination with Municipal Health Officers, ASHA workers, and SHG group leaders. Bridging Health Gaps Among Women Officials noted that SHG women—many of whom are homemakers or small entrepreneurs—often delay medical attention due to lack of awareness, time, or resources. This scheme aims to bridge the gap in preventive healthcare by bringing services directly to communities. “Sakhi Suraksha is not just about health check-ups. It’s about dignity, empowerment, and ensuring our women lead healthier, more informed lives,” said a health department spokesperson. Women found to have health issues during the screenings will be referred to nearby government hospitals for further diagnosis and treatment, with follow-up ensured through local health staff. Wider Impact and Future Expansion The scheme, currently focused on Visakhapatnam and other urban areas, is expected to expand to additional municipalities across the state in the coming months. The initiative is seen as a model for community-based women’s health, combining the strengths of the SHG movement with the resources of the public health system.

ANTI DRUG GLOW THEME PARK LAUNCHED IN VIZAG TO RAISE AWARENESS AMONG YOUTH In a pioneering effort to combat drug abuse among youth, the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has launched the construction of an Anti-Drug Glow Theme Park, the first of its kind in Andhra Pradesh. The park, being developed at a cost of Rs.3.5 crore over two acres of land, is part of the state-wide “Yuvagalam” anti-drug campaign. It aims to create awareness through interactive, artistic, and immersive experiences rather than conventional methods of sensitization. According to VMRDA Commissioner P. Koteswara Rao, the park will serve as both a recreational and educational space. “Our objective is not only to discourage drug use but also to promote healthy lifestyles and informed decision-making among the youth,” he said. Unique Features of the Park The Anti-Drug Theme Park will include: Glow-in-the-dark exhibits 3D visual installations highlighting the physical and psychological impact of drug addiction Interactive zones for students and families Wall murals and graffiti sections featuring artwork by local youth An open-air auditorium for awareness plays, cultural programs, and workshops Dedicated counseling kiosks and helpline information points Located near the Kailasagiri foothills, the park is strategically positioned to attract tourists, students, and local residents. Authorities expect the park to become a hub for school field trips, youth engagement activities, and community-based anti-drug programs. Multi-Departmental Initiative The project is being executed through coordination between VMRDA, Visakhapatnam City Police, the Excise Department, and the Departments of Education and Health. These agencies will contribute to both the infrastructure and the content of the park’s exhibits and programs. Officials said the park is scheduled for completion by March 2026 and will be formally inaugurated with the participation of government leaders, educators, and youth representatives. A Timely Step With rising concerns over drug use among students in urban and coastal Andhra, the initiative is being seen as a timely and constructive intervention. Authorities hope it will act as a model for similar awareness-driven infrastructure in other cities. “This is not just about saying ‘no’ to drugs,” a senior VMRDA official said. “It’s about empowering youth to be the champions of a healthier society.”

AP GOVERNMENT INVITES PUBLIC SUGGESTIONS FOR UTILIZATION OF RUSHIKONDA BUILDINGS IN VISAKHAPATNAM The Andhra Pradesh government has extended an open invitation to the public, industry stakeholders, and civil society to submit suggestions for the optimal use of the sprawling Rushikonda building complex overlooking the Bay of Bengal in Visakhapatnam. Constructed at a reported cost of over Rs.450 crore by the previous administration, the seven-block complex on Rushikonda Hill has remained largely underutilized. Amid rising maintenance costs, environmental concerns, and increasing public scrutiny, the current government has launched a participatory process to determine its future use. In a statement issued by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), citizens are encouraged to send in their ideas via email to rushikonda.suggestions@aptdc.ap.gov.in within seven days. The government is particularly keen on proposals that ensure public benefit, economic viability, and environmental sustainability. A consultation meeting is also scheduled for October 17 at the APTA CEO’s office in Vijayawada, where hospitality, tourism, and infrastructure firms can present concept notes or expressions of interest (EoIs). A Landmark Under Debate The Rushikonda project has been at the center of political and environmental debates for years. Critics have pointed to alleged violations of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms and structural issues including leakage and peeling in some blocks. Activists and political leaders alike have called for greater transparency and a clear vision for the property''s use. With mounting public interest, a Group of Ministers (GoM) has already been constituted to study the issue and make recommendations based on stakeholder input. Stakeholders Pitch Proposals Suggestions for the complex’s future have been diverse: IT industry leaders in Vizag have proposed turning the site into an innovation hub or IT incubation centre to attract global investors and startups. Others have called for a Museum of Coastal Heritage and Arts, to promote local culture, science, and tourism. Government officials have hinted at developing the complex as a MICE hub (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions), tapping into the booming event and destination wedding sector. Local residents have also suggested that parts of the property be made accessible to the public, including cafés, open-air theatres, and public viewing decks. A Chance for Public Voice Officials say the government is committed to transparency and inclusive development. “This is a valuable public asset. It is only right that we listen to the people, experts, and potential partners before taking a final decision,” said an official involved in the process. The final decision will consider feasibility, sustainability, and long-term utility, with an emphasis on creating employment, boosting tourism, and preserving the ecological beauty of Rushikonda.