AP govt plans global-style coastal city in Vizag

Visakhapatnam: In line with the vision of the NITI Aayog to position Visakhapatnam as a flagship coastal growth hub on the lines of globally renowned beachfront destinations, the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has initiated the process to appoint a reputed consultant to prepare an area development plan and catalytic project strategy for the proposed Vizag Bay City (VBC).

The consultant will develop a comprehensive blueprint for the ambitious waterfront project, which draws inspiration from iconic global seafront districts such as Miami’s Bayshore Corridor, Jumeirah Beach, La Barceloneta in Spain and East Coast Park in Singapore. The aim is to combine world-class beachfront living with technology-driven economic ecosystems. Positioned as the flagship anchor of the Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER), VBC is expected to serve as a catalyst for the State’s Swarna Andhra @2047 tourism and economic vision. The project is projected to generate significant economic impact by creating one of India’s most attractive high-value coastal destinations.

According to the VER Master Plan, the development is expected to attract large numbers of foreign and high-end domestic tourists annually by FY2032. Visitors are projected to spend Rs8,000–12,000 per day on average, boosting hospitality, retail and other sectors.

VMRDA has invited bids from prospective consultants, with the last date for submission set for April 2. A pre-bid meeting will be held on March 18 and bids will be opened on April 4.

Spanning around 40 sq km along a prime 25-km coastal stretch between Kailasagiri and Bheemili, Vizag Bay City is envisaged as the anchor of the Vizag 2.0 project.