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In a major step towards improving urban transport, the Andhra Pradesh government has approved the first phases of metro rail projects for Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. This announcement, made on Monday, signals a commitment to modernizing the state's transportation system and easing congestion in two key cities. Together, the projects are expected to cost Rs 22,507 crore, promising enhanced connectivity and reduced travel time.
Visakhapatnam Metro: A Three-Corridor Start
Visakhapatnam's metro rail project will begin with three corridors covering 46.23 kilometers and including 42 stations. These corridors will connect Steel Plant Junction to Kommadi, Gurudwara to Old Post Office, and Thatichetlapalem to China Waltair. For this phase, 99.75 acres of land will be acquired at an estimated cost of Rs 882 crore.
A second phase is also planned, with a new corridor linking Kommadi to Bhogapuram. Once completed, the Visakhapatnam metro network will span 76.90 kilometers, with Phase-II expected to cost an additional Rs 14,309 crore. The total investment for Phase-I of Visakhapatnam metro stands at Rs 11,498 crore.
Vijayawada Metro: Connecting Key Areas
In Vijayawada, the first phase will feature two corridors extending 38.40 kilometers with 34 stations. The routes will connect Gannavaram to Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS) and PNBS to Penamaluru. The project will cost Rs 11,009 crore, including Rs 1,152 crore for land acquisition.
A future second phase is planned to connect PNBS with Amaravati's Reservoir Station, adding further convenience for commuters.
Both metro projects will follow a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, with 40% of funding from the Central government and 60% from private developers. This collaborative approach reflects a shared commitment to developing infrastructure while distributing the financial responsibility.
These projects have faced obstacles in the past. For instance, the Vijayawada metro plan had to be revised after the Centre asked for updates to meet new guidelines. The Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (APMRCL) worked with France-based Systra Consultants to revise the Detailed Project Report (DPR), ensuring it aligned with updated standards.
With these metro projects, Andhra Pradesh aims to transform urban transportation in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada. The metro networks promise better connectivity, reduced travel times, and relief from traffic congestion, boosting economic growth and quality of life for residents.
The state government's approval marks a key milestone, and as further clearances are sought from the Central government, these transformative projects are set to reshape urban mobility in Andhra Pradesh.
