Vizag Metro Project Nears Final Approval with Rs 11,500 Crore Investment
The Union government is poised to grant approval for the revised detailed project report of the proposed Visakhapatnam metro rail project in the coming days. According to official sources, an in-principle approval order is anticipated to be issued shortly, marking a critical step forward for this major urban infrastructure initiative.
Project Overview and Funding Structure
The ambitious metro project will span three primary corridors, covering a total distance of 46.23 kilometers at an estimated cost of Rs 11,500 crore. The funding model involves a 20% contribution from the Union government, matched by an equal share from the Andhra Pradesh state government. The remaining funds are being sought from international financing agencies at competitive interest rates to ensure financial viability.
The tendering process was initiated several months ago, even before formal DPR approval, demonstrating the project's momentum. Once the detailed project report receives official sanction, the successful bidder is expected to be announced within weeks, accelerating implementation timelines.
Corridor Details and Land Acquisition
The three proposed corridors include:
- Vizag Steel Plant junction to Kommadi: This 34.4-kilometer corridor will be developed along the national highway using a double-decker model, requiring minimal private land acquisition.
- Gurudwara to Old Post Office junction: Spanning 5.08 kilometers, this section will enhance connectivity in central urban areas.
- Thatichetlapalem to Chinna Waltair: This 6.75-kilometer corridor with seven stations may require additional private land due to limited government land availability in the area.
Approximately 99 acres of land is being acquired for the entire project, with only nine acres being privately owned. The remaining 91 acres belong to various government entities, including 47 acres from the state government, 36 acres from the Visakhapatnam Port Authority, four acres from railways, and three acres from the central government. The land acquisition cost alone is estimated at Rs 882 crore.
Station Development and Future Expansion
The 46.23-kilometer metro network will feature 42 stations, with most being developed on government land. Limited private land may be required for station-related amenities and infrastructure. District officials have established a dedicated committee to identify specific land parcels needed for the project.
The revised cost estimate for the current phase, based on 2024 prices, stands at Rs 11,498 crore. Looking ahead, Phase II of the project will introduce a fourth corridor from Kommadi to Bhogapuram, which will be undertaken after the Bhogapuram airport becomes operational, demonstrating long-term planning for regional connectivity.
This comprehensive metro rail system represents a transformative investment in Visakhapatnam's urban transportation infrastructure, promising to reduce traffic congestion, improve mobility, and stimulate economic growth across the region.
