Rushikonda Palace
Rushikonda Palace, an ultra-modern and luxurious complex built atop the picturesque Rushikonda Hills in Visakhapatnam, has become a topic of significant interest and controversy. Originally envisioned as a tourist resort by the previous YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government, the palace has turned out to be a white elephant for the newly formed Andhra Pradesh government under N Chandrababu Naidu. This blog delves into the history, features, controversies, and potential future of Rushikonda Palace.
Also Read: Places to Visit Near Rushikonda Beach
Rushikonda Palace History
Initial Vision and Construction
- Developer: YS Jagan Mohan Reddy-led government
- Location: Rushikonda Hills, Visakhapatnam
- Purpose: Initially projected as a luxurious tourist resort
- Inauguration: February 29
- Governmental Shift: Intended to be the residence-cum-camp office for Jagan Mohan Reddy
Election Results and Shift in Power
- Assembly Elections: May
- Election Outcome: YSR Congress Party lost power to the Telugu Desam Party-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA)
- Impact: Jagan’s plans to shift his residence to Rushikonda Palace were thwarted
Features of Rushikonda Palace
Rushikonda Palace Architectural and Design Elements
- Total Area: 9.88 acres
- Number of Blocks: Seven blocks
- Built-up Area: 19,968 square meters
Rushikonda Palace Luxurious Facilities
- Imported Granite Flooring
- 200 Chandeliers: Each costing up to ₹15 lakh
- Interior Design: Cosy interiors designed at a cost of ₹33 crore
- Imported Furniture
- Spa and Jacuzzis
- Spacious Washrooms: Commodes each costing ₹15 lakh
- Landscaping: Exotic imported plants and grass
- Advanced Sound System
- Home Theatre Screen: Humongous size
- Multi-Hued Illumination
Rushikonda Palace Estimated Costs
- Initial Estimate: Around ₹500 crore
- Final Cost: Over ₹680 crore (including landscaping, illumination, roads, and security arrangements)
- Rushikonda Palace Bathroom Tub Cost: 23 Lakhs
Rushikonda Palace Controversy
Public Accessibility and Usage
- Public Access: Restricted; common public could not access the complex
- TDP Exposure: Local TDP MLA and former minister Ganta Srinivas Rao led a delegation to expose the palace’s interior
Criticism from TDP Leaders
- Ganta Srinivas Rao’s Statement: “The ultra-expensive facilities clearly indicated that Jagan wanted to rule the state like a monarch from this palace. This is certainly not meant for any tourists.”
- Comparison: The palatial complex looks much more than a five-star hotel
Environmental and Ethical Concerns
- Demolition of Existing Resort: The previous tourism resort with 58 rooms, a conference hall, and a bar-cum-restaurant was demolished to construct the new palace
- Environmental Clearance: The previous Jagan government obtained clearance for a tourism project but built a residential-cum-official complex
Future of Rushikonda Palace
Viability as a Tourist Resort
- Current Structure: Comprises 12 rooms with official chambers and conference halls
- Financial Viability: Not feasible as a tourism resort due to the limited number of rooms
- Maintenance Costs: Expected to be very high
Potential Uses Suggested
- VIP Accommodation: Suggested by former minister Gudivada Amarnath for hosting VIPs like the Prime Minister, President, and foreign dignitaries
- TDP’s Critique: VIPs are more likely to stay in the guest houses of the Eastern Naval Command due to stringent security reasons
Government’s Decision
- Statement by IT Minister Nara Lokesh: The government is considering how to make appropriate use of the palace
Places to visit near Rushikonda Palace
Rushikonda Palace is situated in a picturesque location, surrounded by various attractions that offer natural beauty, cultural heritage, and recreational activities. Here are some must-visit places near Rushikonda Palace:
- Rushikonda Beach
- Distance: 1 km
- Highlights: Pristine sandy shores, water sports, and scenic sunsets.
- Kailasagiri
- Distance: 9 km
- Highlights: Hilltop park with panoramic views, giant Shiva-Parvati statues, and a ropeway ride.
- Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
- Distance: 11 km
- Highlights: Home to a variety of wildlife, including tigers, lions, and elephants, in a lush, natural setting.
- Submarine Museum (INS Kurusura)
- Distance: 12 km
- Highlights: A decommissioned submarine turned museum, offering a glimpse into the life of naval officers.
- Rama Krishna Beach
- Distance: 12 km
- Highlights: Popular beach with a promenade, eateries, and nearby attractions like the War Memorial and VUDA Park.
- Bheemili Beach
- Distance: 14 km
- Highlights: Historical significance, serene environment, and ancient temples.
- Simhachalam Temple
- Distance: 20 km
- Highlights: Ancient Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Narasimha, known for its architecture and religious importance.
- Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex
- Distance: 8 km
- Highlights: Ancient Buddhist site with stupas, chaityas, and viharas overlooking the sea.
- Yarada Beach
- Distance: 21 km
- Highlights: Secluded and clean beach, ideal for a peaceful retreat with scenic views.
- Dolphin’s Nose Lighthouse
- Distance: 24 km
- Highlights: Offers breathtaking views of the coastline and the Bay of Bengal from a height of 358 meters.
- Araku Valley
- Distance: 120 km
- Highlights: Hill station with coffee plantations, waterfalls, and tribal culture, perfect for a day trip.
These attractions provide a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making the area around Rushikonda Palace a rich and varied destination for travelers.
Conclusion
Rushikonda Palace stands as a testament to grand ambitions and controversial decisions. While it was intended to be a luxurious tourist resort and a potential residence for the state’s Chief Minister, it now poses a significant challenge for the new government. The palace’s future remains uncertain, with high maintenance costs and limited practical use casting a shadow over its potential. The government’s decision on how to utilize this opulent complex will be crucial in determining its role and impact on the state of Andhra Pradesh.
