Andhra Pradesh-the state, which was once known for riches and royalties-is now, unfortunately recording its place in number one in terms of state having large number of slum areas. Andhra Pradesh in the recent past has witnessed many chief ministers. Some promised to make the state Swarnandhra Pradesh (golden state) and a few tagged it as Harithandhra Pradesh (agri state). But it's so astonishing to mention that the state can now be called as Murikhandhra Pradesh (slum state). These words are not said by observers or common people but by the reports given by janaganana. Incredible....But true!

The facts mentioned by janaganana report:

• Andhra Pradesh stands number one in terms of maximum number of slum areas

• Nearly 37 per cent of families residing in cities were living in slum areas

• Kerala is the at the last in terms of slum areas

• Rayachoti of Kadapa district has no slum

• Rayadurgam has more slum areas

• Bapatla of Guntur stands number two in the state in slum areas

• Gudur of Nellore district stands in number three

Janaganama is a survery, which is conducted once in a decade. These findings will play a crucial role in assessing the economic development of the states. Now that the report states that many people are residing in slums in Andhra Pradesh, it's high time that politicians should focus on striving towards a better and healthier society.

(AW Phani)