World Bank and ADB Delegates Visit Amaravati for Environmental and Social Review
A joint delegation from the World Bank and Asian Development Bank recently toured several construction sites in Amaravati and attended an orientation session hosted by the Andhra Pradesh Capital Region Development Authority (APCRDA). The programme focused on environmental protection measures, worker health and safety, and social welfare initiatives tied to the ongoing development of the new capital city.
Commitment to Environment and Worker Welfare
During the session, APCRDA Additional Commissioner G. Suryasai Praveen Chand provided a comprehensive update on the authority’s efforts to protect the environment amid the city’s construction phase. He highlighted protocols ensuring worker safety, the provision of workplace facilities, and extensive welfare programs benefiting Amaravati’s residents. In addition, the officials are actively promoting skill development and employment opportunities within the region.
Zero Tolerance for Child Labour and Gender Equality Focus
Praveen Chand emphasized that Amaravati’s construction strictly adheres to gender equality norms and maintains a zero tolerance policy on child labour. This approach aims to foster an ethical and inclusive work environment throughout the capital building process.
Grievance Redressal Mechanism Addresses Community Concerns
The Additional Commissioner also elaborated on the Grievance Redressal Mechanism (GRM) established to promptly address issues raised by local farmers and city residents, ensuring community voices are heard and integrated into project management.
Technical Discussions on Safeguards and Social Systems
Representatives from the World Bank, including senior social development experts Bayana Venkata Rao and Ranjan Verma, along with the Asian Development Bank team, engaged in detailed discussions regarding the evaluation of environmental and social frameworks in Amaravati. They reviewed the Resettlement Action Plan and examined the mandates of both banks in overseeing environmental and social initiatives within the project.
Experts Joseph (senior environmental specialist) and Damanjeet Singh Minhas (environmental safeguards adviser) outlined key social safeguards contractors must uphold. They stressed the implementation of stringent environment protection measures and adherence to safety protocols designed to mitigate risks in the event of accidents or other unforeseen incidents.
Participation of Key Local Officials
The orientation was attended by several CRDA officials and representatives from Amaravati Development Corporation Limited, including chief engineers Ch. Dhanunjaya, N. Srinivasulu, and M. Prabhakar Rao; superintending engineer R. Hanumanth Reddy; divisional engineer P. Venkateswarlu; and executive engineer K. Srinivasa Rao. Their involvement underscores the collaborative effort between local authorities and international development partners in ensuring sustainable construction practices.
Published on June 20, 2025
