AP CM Chandra Babu Naidu's dream project, the new state capital Amaravathi, is still awaiting green clearance. The foundation for which was laid by PM Modi in last October. Environment minister Prakash Javadekar had assured Andhra Pradesh government in February this year that all green clearances to the state's new capital Amaravati would be given in a month's time. He also said that the project is of national importance.

The state has been forced to decrease forest land diversion from 19,000 hectares to about 13,000 hectares and at a meeting held by the environment ministry committee, green clearance to the project has been held back pending more information and details of land use. A source says, "There are serious concerns over land use. Clarity is needed on this aspect as this cannot be permitted. Also how will they fulfill compensatory afforestation criteria and where will they plant the new trees has to be clearly committed."