Andhra Pradesh approves Double-Decker Metro Systems for Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam

Visakhapatnam, India (Metro Rail Today): In a major move to boost urban mobility, the Andhra Pradesh government is preparing to launch metro rail projects in Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, accompanied by Municipal Administration Minister P. Narayana and R&B Minister B.C. Janardhan Reddy, held a crucial review meeting on Thursday, where they approved the double-decker metro rail system for both cities. The system will span 66 km in Vijayawada and 76.9 km in Visakhapatnam, marking a significant step toward modernizing the state's transportation infrastructure.

N.P. Rama Krishna Reddy, Managing Director of Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (APMRC)  presented the detailed plan for the project, which includes a unique double-decker approach, especially for areas where the metro rail will pass over national and state highways. This design involves constructing roads at ground level, with flyovers above them, followed by metro rail tracks on top, a system already implemented successfully in other Indian cities.

In Visakhapatnam, the first phase will see the metro rail system built along a 15 km stretch from Madhurawada to Thatichetlapalem, and an additional 4 km from Gajuwaka to the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant. In Vijayawada, the project will cover 4.7 km from Ramavarappadu Ring Road to Nidamanuru.

During the meeting, Chief Minister Naidu emphasized that the metro rail project was proposed for Andhra Pradesh under the AP Reorganisation Act and should receive full assistance from the Centre. He noted that funding mechanisms for metro projects had evolved since 2017, with greater Central support now available. Naidu plans to hold discussions with the Centre soon to secure the necessary backing for these ambitious projects.

With the aim to complete the projects in four years, the Chief Minister directed officials to expedite talks with the Centre and move forward with construction at the earliest. Once completed, the metro systems in Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam will revolutionize urban transportation, offering faster, more efficient commutes for residents and visitors alike.