Andhra Pradesh is poised for a significant leap in urban mobility with the Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation (APMRC) formalising agreements with globally renowned consultancy firms TIPSA and SYSTRA. These strategic partnerships, announced in the esteemed presence of Dr. P Narayana, Minister for Municipal Administration and Urban Development, are set to accelerate the long-awaited Vijayawada and Visakhapatnam Metro Rail Projects, promising to transform urban transport and foster sustainable city development.
The Memoranda of Understanding delineate clear roles for the international consultants: TIPSA will lead the design and supervision for the Vijayawada Metro, while SYSTRA will provide crucial technical advisory and execution oversight for the Visakhapatnam Metro. This collaboration brings global best practices to these strategically vital urban infrastructure initiatives, ensuring that the projects are executed with precision and efficiency. The metro developments are being fast-tracked to fulfil commitments made under the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, aiming to deliver world-class transport systems to the state’s rapidly expanding urban populace.
A robust and financially sustainable funding model underpins these ambitious projects. Dr. Narayana outlined that 20% of the total cost will be borne by the Central Government, an additional 20% by the State Government, with the remaining 60% secured through low-interest loans facilitated by the Centre. This balanced financial structure is designed to ensure the long-term feasibility and fiscal prudence of the metro systems, providing a stable foundation for large-scale public infrastructure investments without undue financial strain.
Phase 1 of the Visakhapatnam Metro, spanning 46.23 kilometres, has already seen tenders invited, signalling readiness for construction. Similarly, the 35.04-kilometre Phase 1 of the Vijayawada Metro is slated to float its tenders in the coming weeks. A forward-thinking approach to urban transport design is evident in the planning of double-decker metro corridors – 20 kilometres in Visakhapatnam and 4.7 kilometres in Vijayawada. This innovative design optimises available space and significantly minimises challenges associated with land acquisition in densely populated urban areas, contributing to more efficient and eco-friendly urban planning.
The introduction of these metro rail systems is anticipated to dramatically improve connectivity, substantially reduce road congestion, and alleviate urban pollution in both cities. By offering a high-capacity, low-carbon mode of transport, the metros will contribute directly to the state’s zero-net-carbon goals and enhance air quality, creating healthier urban environments. Furthermore, these projects are expected to act as powerful catalysts for economic growth and transit-oriented development, fostering equitable access to employment, education, and services for all citizens, thereby serving as pioneering models for sustainable and inclusive urbanisation across India.
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