Bus Routes Planned to Link Visakhapatnam with Bhogapuram Airport

Ahead of the inauguration of Bhogapuram International Airport, expected next month, authorities have initiated measures to establish dedicated transport connectivity between Visakhapatnam city and the airport.

A joint team of APSRTC, GVMC and VMRDA officials on Friday inspected key routes and transit points to identify corridors for airport shuttle services.

Two routes have been proposed in the initial phase. The first will operate along NH-16 from Kurmannapalem via Old Gajuwaka, NAD Junction, Gurudwara, Venkojipalem and Madhurawada to Bhogapuram Airport. The second will run from Visakhapatnam Railway Station via RTC Complex, RK Beach, Beach Road and the IT Hills corridor.

APSRTC Regional Manager B. Appalanaidu said 10 air-conditioned buses are proposed on each route, modelled on Hyderabad’s Pushpak airport bus service. The number of services will be increased based on passenger demand and flight operations, he added.

Officials said the survey report would be submitted to the District Collector for approval. Proposals are also under consideration to establish AC lounges for passengers at select transit points.

The state government plans to inaugurate Bhogapuram International Airport on July 5, reportedly in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Sources indicate that Singapore-based carrier Scoot is likely to shift its operations to the new airport from July 8.