The Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project is advancing as the state government, led by Minister P. Narayana, has forwarded its master plan to the central government for approval. Addressing assembly concerns, Narayana assured that a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR), based on the Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP), will also be submitted for additional clearance. The project, a commitment under the AP Reorganisation Act of 2014, was initially planned by DMRC in 2015, proposing a 42.5 km network across three corridors. While delays persist, the renewed focus on approvals and revisions reflects the government's determination to enhance urban mobility. Once approved, the project promises to improve connectivity and boost regional development.
The Minister for Municipal Administration, P. Narayana, recently announced that the state government has forwarded the master plan for the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project to the central government. He mentioned that construction activities would commence once approvals are received from the Centre.
Addressing questions raised in the assembly earlier this week by TDP members Palla Srinivasa Rao, Velagapudi Ramakrishna, and Janasena member Konathala Ramakrishna, the minister shared that a revised Detailed Project Report (DPR) would be submitted. This update follows a recent review by the Chief Minister in Visakhapatnam regarding the Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP). He assured members that there was no need for concern over the DPR, as the state government would seek additional approval for the revised document once the previous version is cleared by the Centre.
Narayana dismissed allegations that the DPR had not been prepared and highlighted that funding for metro projects in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada is a commitment under the AP Reorganisation Act of 2014. He elaborated that the TDP government had tasked the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) with preparing the DPR in 2014. By 2015, DMRC had proposed a medium metro with three corridors covering a network of 42.5 km for Visakhapatnam.
Reflecting on the TDP-led NDA's tenure, Narayana stated that the Chief Minister had requested the Centre to transfer the entire metro project to the railway department, seeking 100 per cent funding similar to the Kolkata Metro. He expressed hope that the Centre would grant approval for the project soon.
The Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project represents a critical step towards enhancing urban mobility and regional connectivity. While the state government pushes for central approvals, historical delays and administrative hurdles have slowed progress. However, the revised DPR and renewed focus from the current administration bring fresh optimism. Minister Narayana's statements reflect a commitment to expediting the project, with expectations of Centre backing. Once approved, the project is set to significantly benefit residents, aligning with broader urban development goals.
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