Foundation stone laid for Government Working Women’s Hostel at Gajuwaka

The groundbreaking ceremony for a working women’s hostel was held near the Vadlapudi Fire Station in the 87th ward at Gajuwaka, here, on Monday (ovember 24).

The facility will be built with modern amenities, enhanced security features, and government oversight to ensure safety, dignity, and affordability for working women. Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat, TDP State president and Gajuwaka MLA Palla Srinivasa Rao, GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg and Mayor Peela Srinivasa Rao participated in the programme.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Palla Srinivasa Rao said the hostel marks the first government-constructed working women’s accommodation in Visakhapatnam. Women employed in Gajuwaka and the surrounding areas would have access to safe, comfortable, and high-quality living spaces. “This is not merely a hostel — it is the beginning of a new pathway that brings light, confidence, and opportunity to women’s future,” he observed.

Referring to the high rents and safety challenges in private hostels, he said the difficulties faced by women are well known. “If there is any government that genuinely works for women, it is the one led by Chandrababu Naidu. He has always wanted women to move forward with confidence and dignity. This hostel stands as evidence of that intent,” Mr. Rao said.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao recalled that Mr. Naidu had strengthened lakhs of women through DWCRA groups and launched progressive initiatives such as the Stree Shakti scheme and Thalliki Vandanam, which enhanced social respect for mothers. He also cited the transformative impact of free bus travel for women across the State. “Now, this hostel, designed to provide safe accommodation for women migrating to Visakhapatnam for employment, is further proof of Mr. Naidu’s trust in their potential and his commitment to their welfare,” he added.

He observed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has taken several pioneering steps to empower women across the country, while Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu has shown similar dedication in Andhra Pradesh. He expressed confidence that the hostel project would be expedited through coordination between the Centre and the State.

Mr. Srinivasa Rao commended MP Sribharat for his proactive work in advancing opportunities for youth and women. He remarked that the MP’s commitment to elevating Visakhapatnam’s development trajectory was noteworthy.

GVMC officials, public representatives, and local leaders attended the programme.