VMRDA Seeks Forest Clearance for Bhogapuram Airport Roads
As the launch of the Bhogapuram greenfield international airport nears, the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority has sought Forest Department clearance to divert 6.58 hectares, or about 16.25 acres, of forest land along the Adivivaram–Sonthyam road. The clearance is required to speed up work on seven key approach roads linking the region to the airport.
Officials said the request has gained urgency with a validation flight scheduled for January 4 to assess the airport’s readiness. The approach roads are critical for ensuring smooth access once commercial operations begin.
Planned under the airport master plan, the seven roads together span 26.72 km. They are expected to reduce congestion on the national highway and cut travel time for passengers from Visakhapatnam and the neighbouring districts of Vizianagaram and Srikakulam.
The project requires coordination among several agencies, including the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation and the Roads and Buildings, Panchayat Raj, and Forest departments. Progress has also depended on cooperation from private landowners who have given up land for the works.
Officials said construction has been slower than expected, mainly due to delays in land acquisition and forest clearances. Affected landowners are being compensated through cash payments, alternative land, and transferable development rights. The total cost of the seven approach roads is estimated at Rs 156 crore, including funds mobilised through corporate social responsibility initiatives.
In addition to the approach roads, VMRDA plans to widen 15 internal roads to improve last-mile connectivity to the airport. These works are estimated to cost around Rs 390 crore. A six-lane beach corridor connecting Beach Road in Visakhapatnam to Bhogapuram is also on the anvil, with the detailed project report already finalised.
Officials said land from 348 private owners needs to be acquired for the various road projects. Compensation is being issued through TDR bonds, with about 180 TDRs released as of December 31, 2025. The remaining bonds are expected to be issued shortly.
“None of the road widening works has been completed yet, but the projects are progressing as planned and will be finished within the deadline,” a VMRDA official said.
Among the key pending works is the 8 km stretch from the Adivivaram BRTS junction to Gandigundam, which is still awaiting forest clearance. Several other widening and expansion projects are underway as authorities work to ensure timely and efficient access to the upcoming airport.