Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday reviewed a comprehensive master plan to develop the Polavaram Irrigation Project and its surrounding areas into a major tourism destination, integrating infrastructure development with riverfront, eco and adventure tourism.At a review meeting held at the Chief Minister’s Camp Office, senior officials of the Irrigation Department and representatives of consultancy firm Nippon Koei India presented proposals for tourism development in and around the project.The consultancy outlined plans for a cable-stayed bridge, beautification of the Polavaram spillway and an integrated tourism master plan covering the project and nearby areas. It also highlighted opportunities for riverfront tourism, water sports and adventure activities.Officials discussed tourism development on both banks of the Godavari within Andhra Pradesh, extending upstream from the Polavaram Project towards the Bhadrachalam region.Mr. Naidu said the government intended to take up tourism infrastructure alongside the completion of the Polavaram Project, which is scheduled to be dedicated to the nation next year.He said the project area, with its abundant water resources, scenic hills and forests, had the potential to emerge as one of Andhra Pradesh’s premier tourism destinations. He directed officials to prepare plans that would enhance the project’s appeal while generating employment and economic opportunities for local communities through tourism.The consultancy said the region’s natural landscape offered ideal conditions for developing a world-class tourism destination centred on riverfront tourism, adventure activities and water sports.The government plans to execute tourism infrastructure works in parallel with the remaining components of the Polavaram Project, with the objective of transforming the irrigation project into a landmark tourist destination while boosting the local economy. Published - July 14, 2026 08:56 pm IST