VMRDA Restarts Key Road Works After Bitumen Supply Crisis Ends

The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has resumed major road construction works after a severe shortage of bitumen, triggered by global supply disruptions linked to the West Asian crisis, led to months of delay.

Officials said the disruption brought several master plan road projects, including key routes connecting to Bhogapuram airport, to a halt as procurement channels were affected worldwide.

VMRDA Chairman M.V. Pranav Gopal and Metropolitan Commissioner N. Tej Bharat held discussions with petroleum companies to stabilise supply, eventually securing 700 metric tonnes of bitumen from Indian Oil Corporation in Chennai.

With supplies restored, the authority has resumed work on two major stretches: the Nerellavalasa–Kothavalasa road, which is about 80% complete, and the Boyapalem–Kapuluppada road, which is 72% complete. The Commissioner formally launched the final phase of bitumen laying on Thursday.

Officials said the two projects together require 945 metric tonnes of bitumen, meaning additional procurement will still be required to fully complete the works. Construction activity has now been stepped up, with multiple pavers, road rollers, and around 20 tipper trucks deployed to speed up execution.

Tej Bharat said the Boyapalem–Kapuluppada stretch is expected to be completed by May 8, 2026, followed by the Nerellavalasa–Kothavalasa road by May 12, 2026.

He added that despite ongoing global logistical constraints, the authority remains focused on meeting deadlines for these strategic corridors, which are expected to significantly improve connectivity to the upcoming airport and surrounding regions.