In a key move to boost infrastructure development, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has sanctioned Rs 963.93 crore for a six-lane, access-controlled highway in Andhra Pradesh.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari made the announcement on X (formerly known as Twitter), revealing that the highway will link the Anakapalle-Anandapuram NH-16 corridor to Sheelanagar Junction on NH-516C in Visakhapatnam district. The project, which spans nearly 12.66 km, will commence at Sabbavaram village's eastern side and end at Sheelanagar Junction near the GAIL office along the existing port road.

Gadkari elaborated that the project would facilitate the smooth evacuation of cargo by reducing traffic interference, effectively segregating traffic between Sheelanagar and Anandapuram, and significantly enhancing connectivity to Visakhapatnam Port, thereby improving logistical efficiency.

Once completed, the highway is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, especially for heavy vehicles, providing substantial relief along the Anakapalle to Sheelanagar route.