Vizag could get tramlines besides a Metro corridor
By Newsmeter Network Published on 21 Jan 2020 5:14 AM GMT
Visakhapatnam: A three-layer, intra-city transport network for Visakhapatnam, which will be the de-facto capital of Andhra Pradesh, is in the active consideration.
Besides Metro connectivity, the state is mulling to start three tram routes in less congested parts of the city, according to the sources at Amaravati Metro Rail Corporation (AMRC).
The tramlines are estimated to cost between Rs 100 crore and Rs 120 crore per km. While the Metro project is supposed to be completed by 2024, the tramline project is slated to come to life by 2029. The AMRC official said that there is a proposal to rename ‘Amaravati Metro Rail Corporation’ to ‘Andhra Pradesh Metro Rail Corporation’.
The proposed tram routes will connect Pendurthi to NAD Junction, Steel Plant to Anakapalli and Old Post Office to Bheemili. The corridors will have at least one crossover with one Metro station. The total length of the three tram arms is expected to touch 60 km. The trams will run on battery and hence environment-friendly, said the official.
A Metro rail stretch is expected to come up across NH-16 connecting the steel plant located on the city’s outskirts to the proposed Bhogapuram Airport in the northern part.
The first corridor will cover 30.38 km from Gajuwaka to Kommadi – via NAD Junction, Gurudwara, Maddilapalem and Hanumanthawka along NH-16. The second corridor of 5.25 km will run between Gurudwara Junction and Old Post Office via Daba Gardens, Suryabagh, Police Barracks and Poorna Market.
The third one will cover 6.91 km covering Thatichetlapalem to China Waltair via East Point Guest House, Railway Station, RTC Complex, Sampath Vinayaka Temple, Siripuram and AU Outgate. "The fresh plan is to make the Metro stretch in Visakhapatnam 80km long,” said the official.
The third layer of the city's transport network will comprise buses, autorickshaws and different types of cabs. The official added, “There are discussions about APSRTC considering procurement of eco-friendly electric buses which will be able to manoeuvre through the narrow city lanes."
