New Delhi: The work would begin soon to set up Autonagar in Anakapalli district of Andhra Pradesh. Autonagar, resided by motor mechanics, have an uncanny knack to remodel jeeps to give them a trending, jazzy look.

The AP Legislative Council earlier had passed a resolution allotting land to the Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) for setting up the Autonagar.

A government order was issued to this effect in 2022. After holding talks with the Motor Vehicle Workers’ Welfare and Development Services Society, officials of APIIC and the revenue department that 37 acres near Kesanupalli would be suitable for establishing the Autonagar.

The then District Collector Siva Shankar Lotheti, had approved the plan and instructed officials to expedite the process and prepare a plan to set up Autonagar in the area.

Realising the need to establish an Autonagar in the area, 42 acres was allotted for the project in Pothavaram village and foundation laid in 2016. Later in 2018, another foundation stone was laid for the construction of roads and drains in the area. However, the work never started.

The news of setting up Autonagar has spread joy among 600 families of motor mechanics in Chilakaluripet. The district administration has identified over 37 acres for the project near Kesanupalli. 

The motor mechanics who are renowned for their knack for manufacturing remodelled jeeps, however, due to lack of proper infrastructure and facilities, have been carrying out their businesses in small sheds and shops at KB Road in Chilakaluripet.

Once established, Autonagar can create more than 11,000 direct and indirect jobs for people in the region. /BI/