The World Bank has approved a substantial USD 800 million loan for the Amaravati Integrated Urban Development Program, which will support the development of Andhra Pradesh's greenfield capital city, Amaravati. The loan, approved by the Board of Executive Directors of the World Bank, aims to establish Amaravati as a sustainable, climate-resilient urban center that will create economic opportunities and improve the lives of its residents. The project is set to focus on building the city as a model for urban transformation in India, aligning with the nation’s broader goals of developing sustainable and livable cities.

The loan, which will be repaid over 29 years with a six-year grace period, is part of India’s ongoing efforts to develop Amaravati into an economic hub and state capital for Andhra Pradesh. The Government of India requested the loan to fund critical infrastructure and institutional development that will drive economic growth and job creation in the city. Notably, the loan will be drawn in Japanese Yen, highlighting the global financial support for the project.

World Bank’s Country Director for India, Auguste Tano Kouame, emphasized the transformative potential of the project, particularly in creating opportunities for vulnerable groups such as women and youth. With India’s urban population expected to nearly double by 2050, Amaravati is poised to play a crucial role in setting the standard for sustainable urban development across the country. The World Bank will bring its global expertise to ensure that the city’s infrastructure and institutions can cater to future growth and economic expansion.