Andhra Pradesh Invites Tenders for Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada Metro Projects.

The Andhra Pradesh government is reportedly set to invite tenders for the implementation of metro rail systems in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada, marking a significant step towards enhancing urban connectivity in the state.

According to a report by The Times of India, the Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation Limited (APMRCL) has finalized the first phase of the Vijayawada metro project. This initial phase will comprise two corridors: Phase 1A, connecting Gannavaram (Vijayawada airport) to Pandit Nehru Bus Station (PNBS), and Phase 1B, covering the route from Penamaluru to PNBS. Combined, these corridors will span a distance of 38.4 kilometers.

For Visakhapatnam, the metro rail project is planned with four corridors, encompassing a total length of 76.90 kilometers.

Funding Structure and Project Costs

Addressing the funding model, APMRCL Managing Director NP Rama Krishna Reddy informed The Times of India that the financial structure for both projects involves a joint venture approach. "The state and Centre will each bear 20 per cent of the equity component, totalling 40 per cent, while the remaining 60 per cent will be sourced through external funding in the form of loans from foreign banks," Reddy stated.

The estimated cost for the Visakhapatnam metro project stands at ₹11,498 crore, while the Vijayawada metro project is projected to cost ₹10,118 crore.

Reddy further emphasized that both metro initiatives will be joint ventures between the Central and state governments. He highlighted the precedence for such partnerships, noting, "The Centre has already extended equity support to more than 20 JV metro rail projects across the country." This collaborative funding model is expected to facilitate the timely execution of these crucial infrastructure projects.