The Andhra Pradesh government led by chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu incurred an expenditure of Rs 12.50 crore on the last week’s tour of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Visakhapatnam to launch various projects and lay foundation stone to some other schemes.
According to sources, the expenditure, revealed by revenue department officials, includes various arrangements for the event and public mobilization.
The government released Rs 5 crore initially and is yet to clear the bills for another Rs 7.50 crore for various works. Key expenses included the use of 2,150 RTC buses, 8,000 autos, 825 private buses, and 180 maxi cabs to transport attendees.
Additionally, 2.6 lakh food packets were prepared and distributed during the event. Security and hospitality arrangements for the dignitaries included high-end accommodations in star hotels and multiple convoys for transportation.
Other significant costs involved constructing the stage, green rooms, LED screens, barricades, and tents.
Officials also disclosed pending payments to suppliers and contractors, further highlighting the financial burden of the visit. Sources said.