Visakhapatnam, commonly known as Vizag, is set to enhance its public transportation network with the introduction of the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail Project. This initiative aims to provide efficient and modern transit solutions to the city's residents and visitors.
The Visakhapatnam Metro is a planned rapid transit system designed to alleviate traffic congestion and support the city's growing infrastructure needs. The project encompasses both metro and tram systems, making Vizag the only Indian city to feature such a combination. Once constructed, it will be one of the largest metro projects developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The Visakhapatnam Metro is a planned rapid transit system designed to alleviate traffic congestion and support the city's growing infrastructure needs. The project encompasses both metro and tram systems, making Vizag the only Indian city to feature such a combination. Once constructed, it will be one of the largest metro projects developed under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
The project outlines several corridors for the Light Metro Rail and Modern Tram systems:
Light Metro Rail Corridors:
Kommadi to Steel Plant Junction on NH-16: 34.23 km
Gurudwara to Old Post Office: 5.26 km
Thatichetlapalem to Chinavalteru (RK Beach): 6.91 km
Law College Junction to Marikavalasa: 8.21 km
Kommadi to Bhogapuram Airport: 25.3 km
Modern Tram Ways:
Old Post Office to Rushikonda Beach: 15.40 km
NAD Junction to Pendurthi: 10.2 km
Steel Plant Junction to Anakapalli: 18.2 km
Rushikonda Beach to Bheemili Beach: 16.4 km
The combined network will cover approximately 140 km, with 80 km dedicated to metro lines and 60 km to tram lines.
Project Status
As of December 2023, the Government of Andhra Pradesh has approved the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the Vizag Metro Rail Project. The approval marks a significant milestone, paving the way for subsequent phases, including tendering and construction.
Environmental and Technological Initiatives
The Visakhapatnam Metro Rail Project emphasizes eco-friendly practices and advanced technologies:
Green Metro Concept:
Plans include installing solar photovoltaic panels on station rooftops and depots to achieve energy self-sufficiency. Stations are designed to meet Platinum rating criteria as per Indian Green Building Council norms.
Advanced Digital Technology:
The metro will feature automatic ticket vending machines, LED signage boards, and a unified smart travel card system for seamless commuting. A dedicated metro app will provide real-time information to passengers.
Integration with
The project aims to boost tourism by providing connectivity to key attractions along the 32 km beachfront stretch from the Old Post Office to Bheemili. Notable sites include:
Ramakrishna Beach
INS Submarine Museum
Kailasagiri
Rushikonda Beach
Indira Gandhi Zoological Park
The modern catenary-free tram system is planned to connect these destinations, enhancing the tourism experience.
First and Last Mile Connectivity
To ensure seamless travel, the project includes provisions for:
E-cycles and e-rickshaws
Dedicated parking zones at major stations
Tie-ups with cab and auto-rickshaw services offering fixed fares for metro commuters
These measures aim to provide comprehensive mobility solutions for residents and visitors alike.