Vizag tops in Central, State undertakings: VMRDA chief

Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) Commissioner N. Tej Bharat on Sunday said Visakhapatnam has the highest concentration of Central and State government undertakings, underscoring its importance as a major administrative and industrial hub.

He was speaking as the chief guest on the second day of CITU’s Shramik Utsav, held at the Andhra University exhibition grounds behind the AU Convention Centre. The workers’ festival was organised on the theme “Long Live Worker–Peasant Unity.”

Mr. Tej Bharat said Visakhapatnam has a large workforce and lauded the Centre of Indian Trade Unions for its sustained efforts in addressing workers’ issues. He noted that since its inception in 1970, CITU has played a significant role in safeguarding labour rights. He added that the government would take a positive approach to resolving pending labour-related and development issues in the region.

Referring to investments in the city, the Commissioner said projects worth hundreds of crores of rupees are underway, leading to major improvements in road connectivity and infrastructure. He said plans are in progress to establish Google facilities at Tarluwada, develop an IT hub at Kapuluppada, and attract IT companies to Madhurawada. Steps are also being taken to promote Visakhapatnam as an adventure tourism hub.

Mr. Tej Bharat said the VMRDA is planning housing projects for middle- and lower-middle-income groups. He noted that the city has around 50 slums and that proposals for their redevelopment are being prepared. He expressed hope that labour reforms would strengthen social security and enhance training and skill development for workers.