The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has embarked on a road widening project in response to the persistent demand from the community. The aim is to enhance the road from Jagadamba Centre to Old Post Office Junction, which connects Poorna Market and Kurupam Market within the Visakhapatnam South Assembly segment.
The existing road has been plagued by narrow sections, leading to traffic issues throughout the year, particularly during festive and rainy seasons. To address this problem, the road will be expanded to a width of 60 feet, complete with a central median, footpaths, stormwater drains, and street lights.
GVMC officials have already initiated the process by identifying and removing marked structures obstructing the road. A total of 567 structures have been identified for removal as part of the road-widening project. This equates to approximately 13,600 square yards of cleared space.
Under the compensation scheme, GVMC will provide a 1:4 ratio payout for the removed structures. For example, if the building value per square yard is ₹10,000, the corporation will offer ₹40,000 in compensation. The current market value of one square yard along the Jagadamba Centre to Old Post Office stretch ranges from ₹25,000 to ₹25,000.
Out of the total road length of 4.5 km, GVMC plans to remove structures along a 2.5 km stretch. While the structures at Jagadamba Centre will not be significantly impacted due to the relatively wider road, structures spanning approximately 30 feet in width will be removed at narrow points near Sri Kanyaka Parameshwari Devasthanam, which is located close to the Old Post Office.
Arisetty Dinakar, the president of Sri Kanyaka Parameshwari Devasthanam, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, referring to it as a blessing that will undoubtedly contribute to the development of the area and revive its former glory.
This road widening initiative by GVMC is expected to greatly alleviate traffic congestion in Visakhapatnam South, ensuring smoother travel experiences for residents and visitors alike.