E-bus plan speeds up for Visakhapatnam–Bhogapuram airport link

The State government is speeding up connectivity works for Bhogapuram International Airport. The airport is expected to open in June or July. Authorities are focusing on roads and electric bus services.

VMRDA is widening seven master plan roads. These roads connect different parts of Visakhapatnam to Bhogapuram. Officials aim to complete the works by the end of June.

APSRTC is also preparing electric AC bus services for air passengers. Several groups raised concerns over high taxi fares to the airport site. They suggested cheaper public transport options.

The Centre plans to roll out electric buses across states. Andhra Pradesh may receive around 500 e-buses. Of these, 100 buses are likely to come to Visakhapatnam, according to IT Minister Nara Lokesh. RTC officials expect the buses by the end.

RTC is setting up an e-bus station at Simhapuri Colony near Simhachalam. The facility sits on a four-acre site owned by the corporation. Officials plan to run about half of the buses from this depot. They are also building charging facilities at the Gajuwaka depot.

GMR Group is developing the Bhogapuram airport. The company wants e-buses to connect the airport with the North Andhra districts. RTC is conducting a route survey based on flight timings and passenger demand. GMR will also provide charging points at the airport.

APSRTC Regional Manager Appala Naidu said 20 e-buses will arrive in the first phase. These buses will operate across Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli, Vizianagaram, and Srikakulam districts. They will run on limited stops with fixed fares. The service will target air passengers but remain open to other commuters.

Officials said they will align transport services with the airport launch. They aim to ensure smooth last-mile connectivity from day one.