ASHA Welcomes Rushikonda Tourism Complex Redevelopment
The Andhra Pradesh Star Hotels Association (ASHA) has welcomed the state government’s plan to redevelop the Rushikonda Tourism Complex, calling it a landmark move to create a sustainable, world-class tourism destination.
In a letter to Amrapali Kata, CEO of the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority, ASHA president R V Swamy praised the government and APTDC for their vision. He reaffirmed the association’s readiness to collaborate on tourism growth, hospitality excellence, and employment generation.
Swamy also submitted key recommendations to maximise the redevelopment’s potential. These include creating an international consulate hub with UAE, U.S., and Singapore Consulates, citing the strong presence of Andhra-origin communities abroad. The proposal aims to boost NRI services, business and tourism travel, and position Visakhapatnam as a strategic diplomatic and economic centre.
Noting that Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh currently lack a U.S. Consulate, ASHA suggested the city is an ideal choice. The association also recommended inviting leading national and international hotel brands to manage the complex under long-term leases, ensuring steady revenue, high operational standards, and local employment.
The association proposed developing Rushikonda as a world-class beach resort and convention hub, with banquet halls, wedding venues, beachfront dining, and water sports facilities. ASHA further recommended promoting Visakhapatnam as a MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) destination leveraging its coastal charm and emerging infrastructure.
To highlight the state’s heritage, ASHA suggested spaces for regional cuisine food courts, crafthaats, tribal art, and cultural performances. Beach festivals, international food fairs, and music events were proposed to enhance the city’s cultural appeal.
ASHA stated that the model would boost domestic and international tourist arrivals, provide sustainable employment, and secure long-term asset management through professional hospitality operations.
The association confirmed its willingness to work with APTDC through concept development, operational partnerships, and working groups.