![Inspired by Hyderabad's Hitec City, Andhra Pradesh to Develop Data City Near Visakhapatnam Inspired by Hyderabad's Hitec City, Andhra Pradesh to Develop Data City Near Visakhapatnam](https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQJti4Mi27pkDkQ3gD5TX-46o2Icr-oOYDmHW89kvM6DeDsjg4f5cicEChkomM2GyrGAK5J5x_ODssu-Yzscd0rgjpTd-I9fLvsrdoRJsrOg69vRl3BTB3yZzrW3y2SzXMK1CA0j5o_vN5RC2MMHg6bDepY1kyF-n_p2UmRiD-yGMF25fAZv_6zL8WjYk/s1600-rw/1000052979.jpg)
Andhra Pradesh is planning to build a 500-acre Data City near Visakhapatnam, modeled after Hyderabad's successful Hitec City. This ambitious project aims to establish a hub for data centers and artificial intelligence (AI).
The Data City will be developed in Madhurawada, near Visakhapatnam. Spanning 500 acres (about 2.02 million square meters), the project aims to create a comprehensive hub for global IT companies.
The concept of the Data City is credited to Nara Lokesh, the state's IT minister and son of current chief minister N Chandrababu Naidu. Lokesh drew inspiration from Hyderabad's successful Hitec City model, which attracted global tech giants like Microsoft. Interestingly, the Hitec City was also founded by N Chandrababu Naidu when he was CM of the united Andhra Pradesh in 1997.
Google and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have already shown interest, with Google signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for 80 acres and TCS securing 30 acres for expansion. The project is expected to create 2 million jobs and boost the local economy.
Last October, TCS has announced plans to establish a significant IT hub in Visakhapatnam. This new facility is expected to create 10,000 jobs in the region. In 2023, IT giant Infosys also opened its state-of-the-art development center (DC) in Visakhapatnam, which is spread across 83,750 sq. ft. of area.
The Data City project is expected to generate 2 million jobs within 5 years, aligning with the Telugu Desam Party's election promise.
The success of the Data City hinges on securing a flagship player, similar to how Microsoft played a pivotal role in Hitec City.
By attracting major tech companies and fostering innovation, the Data City aims to boost the local economy and position Andhra Pradesh as a leading tech destination in India.
The state government plans to enhance the surrounding area with tourist attractions to further boost economic activity.
In addition to the Data City project, Andhra Pradesh is also developing a Drone City in Kurnool district. This initiative aims to train 35,000 drone pilots and promote the use of drones in various sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and healthcare.