High-speed ferry plan proposed to link Visakhapatnam and Bhogapuram airport
With the Bhogapuram International Airport nearing completion and concerns mounting over future road congestion, a new study has proposed introducing high-speed ferry services between Visakhapatnam and the airport region as part of an integrated coastal transport plan.
The study by the Society for Integrated Development and Research (CIDAR) cautions that depending solely on road connectivity could lead to severe traffic bottlenecks once the airport becomes operational. It has therefore been recommended to develop sea-based transport as an alternative link between Visakhapatnam and the Bhogapuram coast.
Bhogapuram International Airport, located about 40 km north of Visakhapatnam, currently takes around 90 minutes to two hours to reach by road, depending on traffic conditions. The report proposes that high-speed ferries and speedboats operating from the Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour, Visakhapatnam Port and Rushikonda could bridge the nearly 16-km sea stretch to Bhogapuram in about 30 minutes, significantly reducing travel time.
The study notes that the proposed ferry system would primarily strengthen airport connectivity while also opening up a scenic coastal travel option with tourism potential. It further suggests enhancing the onboard experience by offering local cuisine services.
Several locations have been identified for passenger jetties and possible seaplane terminals, including Kancheru, Bheemunipatnam, Mulakuddu and Chintapalli. Among these, a jetty at Kancheru could enable passengers to reach the airport within 10–15 minutes of disembarkation, the report observes.
To ensure seamless movement, the study recommends integrating ferry operations with the proposed coastal road between the Visakhapatnam Port Container Terminal and Bhogapuram. It also calls for the development of modern ferry terminals at both ends, supported by dedicated feeder bus services and direct road connectivity to the airport.
Meanwhile, official sources indicated that Bhogapuram International Airport is likely to be inaugurated later this month. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Andhra Pradesh after returning from his overseas tour to formally inaugurate the facility, with the event likely to be completed before the Monsoon Session of Parliament begins on July 20.