Visakhapatnam plans 35 signal-free junctions ahead of global summit

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), in coordination with the City Police and the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA), plans to convert 35 major intersections into signal-free junctions by the end of October to improve traffic flow ahead of an international summit scheduled in the city this November.

The project involves redesigning junctions with flyovers, underpasses and dedicated free left turns to enable uninterrupted traffic flow without traffic signals. The model is based on traffic management systems adopted in Japan and other East Asian countries.

Feasibility surveys are underway, with the final technical report expected within the next three to four days. The concept will first be implemented at Endada Junction, Satyam Junction and Vantillu Junction in Gajuwaka before being extended to other major intersections across the city.

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg said each junction redesign would cost between ₹1.5 crore and ₹2 crore, depending on the extent of civil works. Construction is expected to begin in the next two to three weeks, with Hanumanthawaka Junction among the locations proposed for the next phase after the pilot project.

Officials said the civic body aims to complete the project by October-end so that the upgraded junctions are operational before the international summit. Engineering works at the three pilot locations will commence after the survey report is approved later this week.