Andhra Pradesh Govt Approves ₹11,498 Crore Visakhapatnam Metro Rail Project

Visakhapatnam, India (Metro Rail Today): The state government of Andhra Pradesh has officially approved Phase One of the much-awaited Visakhapatnam metro rail project, which will span a total distance of approximately 46.23 kilometers. The approval, granted on Monday, marks a significant step towards transforming Visakhapatnam into a modern, efficient urban transport hub.

Phase One of the metro rail project will consist of three key corridors, each designed to ease traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the city. The first corridor, covering 34.40 kilometers, will connect Steel Plant Junction to Kommadi. The second corridor will run for 5.08 kilometers, linking Gurudwara to the Old Post Office Junction. The third corridor will span 6.75 kilometers, running from Thatichetlapalem to Chinna Waltair.

The total revised cost estimate for Phase One of the Visakhapatnam metro rail project, based on 2024 prices, has been pegged at a substantial ₹11,498 crore. This financial commitment reflects the scale and importance of the project, which is expected to significantly alleviate the city's traffic woes, reduce pollution, and provide a sustainable public transportation option for the people of Visakhapatnam.

Looking ahead, Phase Two of the metro rail project will introduce a fourth corridor, running from Kommadi to Bhogapuram. However, this segment will only be developed once the Bhogapuram airport becomes operational. The addition of the Bhogapuram corridor will further enhance the connectivity of the metro system, linking key commercial, residential, and transportation hubs across Visakhapatnam.

The Visakhapatnam metro rail project is set to revolutionize public transport in the region, providing an efficient, eco-friendly alternative to the current road-based transport system. The metro will not only improve intra-city connectivity but also contribute to reducing road congestion and pollution levels, aligning with the state's broader goals for sustainable urban development.

With the approval of Phase One, the groundwork for a modern metro rail network in Visakhapatnam has been laid, promising a brighter future for the city’s infrastructure and its residents.