VMRDA plans cycling tracks in parks, steps up infrastructure push

The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) will develop dedicated cycling tracks in all city parks under its jurisdiction. This initiative is part of broader efforts to promote healthier lifestyles and upgrade urban recreational infrastructure.

VMRDA Chairperson M.V. Pranav Gopal and Metropolitan Commissioner N. Tej Bharat finalized the decision during a high-level review meeting on Thursday. The session was attended by representatives from the Narsipatnam, Nellimarla, and Elamanchili municipalities, alongside officials from the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and the Roads and Buildings Department.

While reviewing ongoing VMRDA-funded projects, the leadership noted that infrastructure upgrades have been strategically planned for all municipalities across the metropolitan region. They emphasized that the VMRDA will continue to play a pivotal role in driving rapid urban and regional growth. To maintain this momentum, engineering teams were directed to utilize sanctioned funds efficiently and complete all ongoing works—including roads, canals, culverts, and community buildings—by August.

Emphasizing the need for modern amenities, Mr. Pranav Gopal announced that municipalities allocating adequate land to the VMRDA will be prioritized for the development of “model parks.” These spaces will feature advanced facilities inspired by Visakhapatnam’s popular VMRDA Park. He added that the State government remains firmly committed to balanced regional growth and has allocated ₹90 crore in the current financial year for infrastructure creation across Assembly constituencies.

The authority also reviewed plans for a proposed Sports Village in the Gajuwaka constituency. Officials were instructed to coordinate closely with the Sports Authority of Andhra Pradesh (SAAP) to fast-track project proposals. In another major tourism push, the VMRDA directed officials to develop Dayal Nagar Konda in Gajuwaka on the lines of the iconic Kailasagiri, aiming to transform it into a premier recreational destination.

Finally, in immediate response to feedback from morning walkers and visitors, Mr. Bharat ordered quick repairs to walking tracks and the installation of additional benches across all VMRDA-maintained parks. He also stressed the importance of boosting greenery along road medians as part of ongoing master plan road developments.