Private Operators to Maintain AP Tourism Properties

Mumbai: Around half-a-dozen plush properties spread across the state belonging to state-run Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) are all set to fall into the hands of private players. APTDC had poured hundreds of crores of rupees into developing these properties, most of them beach destinations. APTDC invited bids calling private operators to operate and maintain these properties for a period of 33 years. The successful bidder will be given the leeway to fix the room tariff without any cap or control. In a first instalment, beach resorts at Baruva in Srikakulam district, Sagar Nagar, Endada in Vizag district, hotel property in Nelapattu which has a bird sanctuary in Nellore district, will start proceedings. APTDC had developed properties across the 13 districts of Andhra Pradesh and also had plans to improve them, besides developing at least 20 new properties. As demand for branded rooms has been growing manifold in the State, the APTDC has decided to hand over the properties to private players for better maintenance, enhanced quality of service and improved branding.