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Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh: Eight people were killed and at least 10-12 others injured after a vehicle carrying pilgrims collided with a tanker in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh early on Thursday, police said. The accident took place on National Highway 167, around 8-9 kilometres from the Dharmapur toll plaza of Kurnool district, near the Karnataka-Andhra Pradesh border. According to police, a small pick-up truck carrying devotees to Sri Raghavendra Swamy Matha in Mantralayam village collided head-on with a truck approaching from the opposite direction. At the time of the accident, 21 people were travelling in the vehicle. The impact of the collision was severe, leaving eight people dead on the spot. The victims include five women, a three-year-old girl and two men. The victims have been identified as pilgrims from Karnataka.

The Andhra Pradesh Government has launched Youth Skill Development Programs across Kurnool district to enhance the employability of young people and prepare them for careers in various industries. The initiative offers training in fields such as information technology, digital skills, electronics, healthcare, retail, hospitality, construction, and entrepreneurship. These programs are designed to equip participants with practical skills, industry knowledge, and certifications that improve their chances of securing employment or starting their own businesses. The training is being conducted through government skill development centers and partner institutions, with guidance from experienced trainers and industry experts. In addition to technical education, participants receive training in communication skills, personality development, interview preparation, and career counseling. Officials believe that the initiative will empower the youth of Kurnool district by creating better employment opportunities, encouraging innovation and entrepreneurship, and contributing to the district’s overall economic and social development.

The Kurnool District Health Department has organized a series of special medical camps across urban and rural areas to improve access to quality healthcare services. The camps provide free health check-ups, medical consultations, diagnostic tests, and essential medicines to residents, with a special focus on senior citizens, women, children, and people from remote villages. Medical teams comprising doctors, nurses, and healthcare workers are conducting screenings for common illnesses, chronic diseases, and seasonal infections while offering preventive healthcare advice. As part of the initiative, the department is also creating awareness about nutrition, maternal and child health, immunization, hygiene, and the prevention of communicable and non-communicable diseases. Patients requiring specialized treatment are being referred to government hospitals for further care. Officials stated that these medical camps aim to strengthen public health services, promote early disease detection, and ensure that quality healthcare reaches every section of society, contributing to the overall well-being of the people of Kurnool district.

Infrastructure development projects are progressing rapidly across Kurnool district, with the district administration focusing on improving roads, public buildings, water supply systems, drainage networks, and other essential civic amenities. Several ongoing projects are aimed at enhancing transportation, strengthening urban infrastructure, and providing better public services to residents. The initiatives are expected to improve connectivity between towns and villages while supporting the district’s long-term economic and social development. In addition to road and civic infrastructure, work is underway to upgrade educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and public utility services. The government is also investing in industrial infrastructure to attract new businesses and generate employment opportunities for local youth. Officials have stated that the timely completion of these projects will improve the quality of life for citizens, promote balanced regional development, and position Kurnool as a modern and well-connected district in Andhra Pradesh.

The Agriculture Department has launched a Kharif Farmer Support Campaign across Kurnool district to assist farmers in preparing for the upcoming cultivation season. As part of the campaign, Rythu Bharosa Kendras (RBKs) are distributing certified seeds, fertilizers, bio-fertilizers, and other essential agricultural inputs to ensure timely sowing and improved crop productivity. Farmers are also receiving technical guidance on crop selection, seed treatment, soil testing, irrigation management, and pest control. In addition to input distribution, the department is organizing awareness camps, field demonstrations, and training programs to promote modern and sustainable farming practices. Agricultural experts are providing weather-based crop advisories and encouraging the use of water-saving irrigation methods and balanced nutrient management. Officials believe the campaign will help increase agricultural production, reduce cultivation costs, improve crop quality, and enhance the incomes of farmers, contributing to the overall development of the agricultural sector in Kurnool district.

The Kurnool District Police have intensified security measures across the district to strengthen public safety and maintain law and order. As part of the initiative, police personnel have increased vehicle inspections, night patrols, surveillance, and surprise checks at key locations, including highways, bus stands, railway stations, and crowded public areas. Special teams have also been deployed to monitor crime-prone zones and prevent illegal activities such as theft, drug trafficking, gambling, and other offenses. District police officials have directed all police stations to remain on high alert and respond promptly to public complaints. Community policing initiatives are also being promoted, encouraging residents to report suspicious activities through emergency helplines and local police stations. The enhanced security measures aim to create a safer environment for citizens, improve public confidence, and ensure strict action against those involved in criminal activities. Authorities have assured the public that continuous monitoring and coordinated enforcement efforts will help maintain peace and security across Kurnool district.

The expansion and modernization of National Highway corridors in Kurnool district are progressing steadily, aiming to improve regional connectivity and support economic growth. Road widening, construction of new bridges, service roads, and improved junctions are being carried out on key highway stretches to ensure smoother and safer travel for commuters, transport operators, and businesses. The upgraded infrastructure is expected to reduce traffic congestion, shorten travel time, and enhance connectivity between Kurnool and neighboring districts. Officials have stated that the highway development project will strengthen the district’s transportation network, facilitate the movement of agricultural produce and industrial goods, and attract new investments. The improved road infrastructure is also expected to boost tourism by providing better access to popular destinations such as Belum Caves, Yaganti, Ahobilam, Mantralayam, and Orvakal Rock Garden. Once completed, the National Highway expansion will play a vital role in supporting trade, logistics, and the overall economic development of Kurnool district.