Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu hailed the new zone as the realization of a long-cherished aspiration for the state. He highlighted that SCoR is expected to transform transportation in north Andhra, generate employment, boost industrial growth, and reinforce Andhra Pradesh’s role as a logistics hub. Expressing gratitude, he thanked Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for fulfilling this significant commitment.
The establishment of the zone aims to accelerate economic development by improving railway administration and infrastructure. Roads Minister BC Janardhan Reddy described the commencement of operations as a landmark event that will hasten railway track expansion, station modernization, the introduction of new trains, and enhanced connectivity throughout Andhra Pradesh.
Health Minister Satya Yadav emphasized the Centre’s special focus on railway development in the state, noting nearly Rs. 85,000 crore worth of projects currently underway. The budget allocation for railway works has dramatically increased from Rs. 886 crore in 2013-14 to Rs. 10,135 crore for 2026-27. The new zone is set to benefit north Andhra by improving connections to key infrastructure, including the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor and the forthcoming Bhogapuram airport, creating better job opportunities for youth in Srikakulam and Vizianagaram districts.
Telugu Desam state president Palla Srinivasa Rao called June 1 a historic day for the Telugu people, attributing the zone’s formation to decades of public advocacy and sustained efforts across generations. He pointed out that the Southern Coast Railway will be India’s 18th railway zone, covering approximately 4,000 km of railway network and accounting for nearly 99% of Andhra Pradesh’s rail infrastructure.
Palla expressed confidence that the new zone would accelerate industrial activity, enhance port-led development, generate employment, and enable faster decision-making for railway projects, ushering in a new phase of growth for Andhra Pradesh.
