AP’s First Slum Rehabilitation Authority Planned in Visakhapatnam
In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Andhra Pradesh, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has proposed amending the Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation Act, 1979, to enable the creation of a Slum Rehabilitation Authority. The move supports the city’s urban development plan under the Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER).
GVMC has submitted pilot slum redevelopment proposals for Velampeta and Indira Gandhi Nagar to the State Government. The plan envisions high-rise residential complexes in both areas.
Officials say residents have endured poor housing, overcrowding, sanitation gaps, and limited civic amenities. These conditions have increased health and safety risks.
GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg said Velampeta will feature a G+12 building for 177 families. Indira Gandhi Nagar will have a G+6 structure for 110 beneficiaries. GVMC will implement both projects under a public-private partnership (PPP) model. The combined cost is estimated at Rs 40 crore.
“The projects will not burden GVMC or the State Government financially. Eligible beneficiaries will receive houses free of cost. Developers will receive TDR and FSI incentives,” Garg said. He added that GVMC studied slum rehabilitation models in Mumbai, Ahmedabad, and Bengaluru before finalising the framework.
GVMC completed a feasibility study and prepared a detailed project report (DPR) within 45 days. The corporation has submitted the DPR for in-principle approval. Garg said GVMC will invite requests for proposals soon. Construction is expected to begin by March.
The Velampeta project carries an estimated cost of Rs 23.17 crore. It will provide 450 sq ft flats to 177 families. Beneficiaries will receive PMAY assistance, including Rs 1.5 lakh from the Centre and Rs 1 lakh from the State. GVMC will develop internal roads, water supply, and sewerage facilities.
Officials valued the TDR benefits for Velampeta at Rs 10.93 crore. The site measures 59 cents (2,740 square yards). The developer will receive 678 square yards. The remaining land will house the residential complex. GVMC will provide transit housing or rental support during construction. The work is scheduled for completion within 18 months.
Authorities reviewed the proposals at a recent meeting in Amaravati, chaired by Municipal Administration and Urban Development Minister P. Narayana.