The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop theme-based cities in and around Visakhapatnam, aimed at driving sustainable urban growth and sector-focused economic development.

Announced jointly by Metropolitan Commissioner KS Viswanathan and VMRDA Chairperson MV Pranav Gopal, the project envisions self-sustained urban clusters dedicated to themes such as Information Technology & Innovation, Health & Wellness, Knowledge & Education, Tourism & Culture, Logistics & Trade, and Eco-Resilience.

Four townships are planned under the initiative, with confirmed sites at Kothavalasa village (Bheemunipatnam mandal) and Sontyam (Anandapuram). The remaining two locations are in the final stages of site selection. Each township will feature smart infrastructure, renewable energy systems, efficient water management, and sustainable urban designs aligned with green and blue economy principles.

VMRDA expects the project to generate 5–6 lakh jobs, attracting skilled professionals, encouraging sector-specific investments, and supporting local entrepreneurs. By integrating modern technology, the new cities aim to enhance service delivery, improve quality of life, and attract both domestic and global investors.

The initiative will be implemented through public-private partnerships (PPP), Engineering-Procurement-Construction (EPC), and hybrid models, with inputs from urban planners, architects, and sectoral experts. Officials emphasised that environmental sustainability, inclusivity, and community participation will remain central throughout the planning and execution stages. 

News source: The New Indian Express