HYDERABAD: Officials from Yokohama City Council in Japan have come forward to collaborate with Andhra Pradesh government in making Kakinada a smart city.
Yokohama port president Masayuki Takashima and other delegates called on chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu at the Secretariat here on Wednesday. During the meeting, they gave a presentation on the ‘Yokohama City’ development to the Chief Minister.
According to Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), through the presentation, the chief minister was informed about the City Centre Enhancement Project, Kanazawa Reclamation Project, Konoku New Town, Subway Lines and transportation and Underground Expressway Projects.
“Essential component of city’s development include consultation and participation of people,” Naidu was informed.
Addressing the Chief Minister, Yokohama City Council officials said they would visit the port city soon and identify areas of collaboration with the government.
Naidu explained to the Japanese delegates that the city is a picturesque one with abundant water and energy availability.
“Currently, there’s a 4-lane road between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada. Soon, we’re planning a beach road that will cover three states and one Union Territory,” he said.
Naidu sought their expertise in city revamping, waste management, tourism, enhancing infrastructure and civic amenities and reducing pollution.
“Given that Japan is strong in hardware, you can also lend your expertise and support in helping us with our Electronics and Hardware Park in Kakinada,” Naidu added.
Municipal Administration & Urban Development (secretary) A Giridhar informed the chief minister that an MoU could be signed between the government and Yokohama City after CM’s meeting with Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) minister this month-end.
Minister P Narayana, principal secretary to CM Satish Chandra, Infrastructure & Energy (secretary) Ajay Jain were present at the meeting.