Preparations are underway for the launch of metro rail services in the coastal city of Visakhapatnam. After the coalition government came to power, there has been renewed momentum in this long-awaited project. With the growing population and increasing traffic congestion in the city, the government is moving forward with the aim of providing modern transportation facilities to the public.
Regarding the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail Project, the Amaravati Metro Rail Corporation (AMRC) has recently invited bids for the appointment of a general consultancy. The coalition government is reportedly considering laying the foundation stone for the project in October this year. Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has taken a special interest in this initiative and has directed officials to expedite the works.
In the first phase, the plan includes the construction of 42 stations along three major corridors covering a total length of 46.23 kilometers at an estimated cost of ₹11,498 crore. The proposed corridors are as follows:
Corridor 1: Steel Plant to Kommadi Junction (34.40 km, 29 stations)
Corridor 2: Gurudwara to Old Post Office (5.07 km, 6 stations)
Corridor 3: Thatichetlapalem to Chinawaltair (6.75 km, 7 stations)
Officials have identified the need for approximately 98 acres of land for the project. The government has instructed the district collector to accelerate the land acquisition process. To meet the project’s financial requirements, the state government is in discussions with various financial institutions. Several institutions are reportedly showing interest in offering loans. In addition, Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has urged the central government to provide 100% funding support for the project.
The government has also focused on ensuring connectivity between the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport and the metro network. As the airport is expected to become operational by 2026, the Chief Minister has emphasized the need to enhance metro connectivity accordingly. To support this, the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has identified 15 key roads and is preparing plans for their development.
A notable highlight of the Visakhapatnam Metro Project will be the construction of a double-decker structure, proposed for a 20.07-kilometer stretch between Madhurawada and Thatichetlapalem, and from Gajuwaka to the Steel Plant. The structure will feature a road at the base, a flyover above it, and the metro track on the top level. Once completed, this is expected to be the longest double-decker metro structure in Asia.
Given Visakhapatnam’s rapid economic and industrial growth, the metro rail project is deemed essential for the city. Experts believe that the project will not only reduce traffic problems but also offer an environmentally friendly transportation system. They opine that the project will significantly transform the city’s landscape and enhance the standard of living for its residents, especially as Visakhapatnam continues to emerge as an information technology hub.
