In a significant move aimed at bolstering the safety and security of working women, the central and state governments have jointly sanctioned the construction of three new working women's hostels in Visakhapatnam. The ambitious project carries a total financial outlay of ₹172 crore.
Foundation Stone Launched for First Hostel
The project moved into its execution phase with the laying of the foundation stone for the first hostel at Mudasarlova. The ceremony was attended by key local leaders including Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharth, Mayor P. Srinivasa Rao, and Vizag East MLA V. Ramakrishna Babu. This inaugural facility will be developed by the Greater Visakhapatnam Smart City Corporation Limited (GVSC) at an estimated cost of ₹63.73 crore.
Addressing Safety Amidst Growing Employment
Speaking at the event, MP M. Sribharth highlighted the direct link between the city's economic growth and the need for secure accommodation. He pointed out that Visakhapatnam's expanding industrial and corporate landscape has generated substantial job opportunities for women. To address their safety concerns, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman specifically allocated these three hostels for the city in the Union Budget. Sribharth confirmed that the full project fund of ₹172 crore has already been released.
GVMC Commissioner Kethan Garg provided further details, acknowledging the local MLA's cooperation in providing the land for the Mudasarlova site. The hostel is designed to be a modern, self-contained complex offering a wide range of amenities to residents. Planned facilities include:
- Dedicated parking space
- Landscaped garden area
- Modern kitchen and dining facilities
- Indoor games room
- Rooftop café
- Yoga and gymnasium facilities
Timeline and Broader Impact
The construction of the Mudasarlova hostel is expected to be completed within 18 months. Commissioner Garg emphasized the project's timeliness, noting the rapid growth of Visakhapatnam's IT, education, medical, and industrial sectors. These hostels are poised to provide safe, convenient, and modern accommodation for women employees contributing to these sectors. He urged working women to avail themselves of this opportunity once the facilities become operational.
This initiative represents a concrete step towards creating a more supportive and secure urban environment for the growing female workforce in one of Andhra Pradesh's key cities.
