From Our Correspondent
New Delhi / Visakhapatnam: The Union government has given an in-principle clearance for the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project, marking a major boost to urban infrastructure in Andhra Pradesh. The approval was conveyed by Union Minister Manohar Lal during a meeting with Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu in New Delhi.
According to official sources, the Andhra Pradesh government had submitted metro rail proposals for both Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. Following a review, the Centre indicated its approval, with Visakhapatnam Metro moving ahead as a priority project to address rising traffic congestion and urban mobility challenges in the fast-growing port city.
As per the Detailed Project Report (DPR), the Phase-I Visakhapatnam Metro will be implemented at an estimated cost of ₹11,000 crore. The first phase envisages three corridors, covering a total length of 46.22 km, with 43 metro stations. The project is planned in a double-decker configuration, integrating road and metro infrastructure to optimise urban space.
The three proposed corridors are:
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Kurmannapalem–Kommadi Junction: 34.40 km with 29 stations
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Gurudwara–Old Post Office: 5.07 km with 6 stations
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Tatichetlapalem–Chinawaltair: 6.75 km with 7 stations
Integrated metro stations are proposed at key locations including NAD, Tatichetlapalem, Gurudwara, Maddilapalem and Hanumanthawaka, aimed at seamless connectivity with other transport modes.
Urban transport experts and earlier planning documents of the Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation have consistently highlighted the need for a mass rapid transit system in Visakhapatnam, citing population growth, expansion of IT and port-linked activities, and increasing vehicular density.
With the Centre’s clearance now in place, officials said the next steps would include financial structuring, tendering and phased execution. The project is expected to significantly ease daily commuting and support Visakhapatnam’s long-term urban and economic growth.