Visakhapatnam Smart City: Innovative Park Development unveiled

Visakhapatnam, one of the four cities within Andhra Pradesh, was chosen as part of the Smart Cities Mission through a competitive selection process that occurred between 2015 and 2018. This information was provided by Kaushal Kishore, the Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs, in response to an inquiry raised by GVL Narasimha Rao, a BJP MP, during a session in the Rajya Sabha.

Kishore disclosed that a total of 61 projects, with a combined value of Rs 9.42 billion, were approved for implementation within the city. Among these, 36 projects have reached completion, utilising Rs 4.52 billion. He emphasised that the execution of Smart Cities Mission initiatives is carried out by Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) jointly owned by the respective state governments and urban local bodies. In cases where complaints arise, they are forwarded to the concerned state governments for appropriate resolution. Additionally, Kishore noted that the Union Ministry is conducting third-party assessments in certain instances.

GVL Narasimha Rao further sought information regarding the funding allocated for the development or renovation of the VMRDA (Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority) Park and related undertakings. The park, spanning 33 acres across three zones, is being transformed into a Smart Park catering to people of all age groups. Kishore elaborated that the park's features encompass a nature trail, cycling path, landscaping adorned with herbal plants, a versatile lawn equipped with a yoga circle, food courts, dedicated sports courts for activities like badminton, tennis, and basketball, a children’s play area, an outdoor gym space, boating facilities, and improved parking provisions. As of July 31, the project has incurred expenses totalling Rs 307.6 million.