From a glorified village to the capital city of Andhra Pradesh, Vijayawada region has come of age and it is time it changed its profile, according Rajesh Berry, hotelier and vice-president of Hotel DV Manor.
Speaking to The Hindu on Thursday, he said the city should prepare to welcome people from all parts of the country with open arms. “More number of corporates will come and more number of professionals will prefer to make the city their second home. It is time the locals changed their attitude and lifestyle,” Mr. Berry says.
However, K. Pattabhi Ram, president of Vijayawada Hotel Owners Association, felt the social life would remain the same as the region was surrounded by villages. “Vijayawada and Guntur, will witness spurt in hospitality sector as several projects are in the pipeline. Though number of star hotels will come up it will take some time for pub and discotheque culture to make its way in the region.”
He said Vijayawada region, unlike Hyderabad, was known for its restrained behaviour and gave more importance to customs and traditions. “Rural background dominates the ethos of the region.”
Race course
The region also yearns for a new race course. “The Hyderabad Race Club tote centre at Yalamanchalli complex is getting many enquiries about the possible new race course. We need at least Rs.100 crore for a full-fledged one. We need to have space for 18 to 24 horses to run in tandem in the circle. Provisions like swimming pool for the horses, veterinary hospital, jockey training centre, administrative block, cash counters, galleries with VIP boxes and cafeteria are a must. Race course maintenance is an expensive affair,” said Phani Babu, tote in-charge.
Golf course
There is also a need have a golf club for an emerging capital city. “With the city expected to attract foreigners and tourists in the days to come, the need go have a golf club is must,” said K.P. Rao, Krishna District Olympic Association. “We need around 100 acres to establish a full-fledged 18-hole course with all facilities,” said G. J. J. Raju, a member of century-old East Point Gold Club at Visakhapatnam.
source: http://www.thehindu.com / The Hindu / Home> News> Cities> Vijayawada / by J R Sridharaan / Vijayawada – September 05th, 2014