In his first visit to Visakhapatnam after assuming the role of Minister-in-Charge of the Visakha district, Social Welfare Minister Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy emphasized the need for a robust and comprehensive development strategy to uplift the region’s infrastructure, connectivity, and overall livability. At a meeting attended by party leaders, officials, and local representatives, Swamy highlighted key projects aimed at enhancing Visakhapatnam’s appeal as a regional hub and improving access to essential facilities.
A focal point of the minister’s agenda is improving road access to the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport, with a goal to reduce travel time from the city center to just 45 minutes. Identifying 12 problematic intersections along the Lankelapalem-Bhogapuram route, Swamy proposed constructing flyovers to ease congestion and ensure smoother travel. Plans were also discussed to widen National Highway 16 and consider a new road connecting Visakhapatnam’s popular beachfront to the airport, enhancing the city’s attractiveness to tourists and business travelers alike.
During the meeting, GMR representatives delivered a PowerPoint presentation on airport infrastructure, while the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) shared a master plan for the city’s growth. Additionally, the police commissioner presented innovative strategies for maintaining law and order, reflecting the administration’s commitment to a safer urban environment.
Environmental initiatives were also on the agenda. Swamy emphasized the importance of pollution control and preventive measures to manage rainwater, especially given Visakhapatnam’s vulnerability to cyclones. He also addressed concerns over the Simhachalam Pancha Gramas issue and called for the swift completion of underground drainage systems to mitigate flooding and reduce accident risks.
Visakha MP Sribhara supported the proposal for simultaneous metro and road expansion projects, including a direct connection to Bhogapuram airport, which would significantly improve urban mobility. Swamy also urged educational institutions to refrain from burdening students with excessive fees or withholding their certificates unlawfully.
The meeting was attended by MLAs Duvwarapi Rama Rao, Vepada Chiranjeevi Rao, Palla Srinivasa Rao, Ganababu, Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu, Panchakarma Ramesh Babu, and Vamsikrishna Srinivas, each voicing support for swift action on these development initiatives. As Visakhapatnam gears up for an era of transformation, Swamy’s comprehensive development plan promises to lay the groundwork for a thriving, well-connected, and environmentally sustainable future.
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