The Centre has cleared the DPRs for the proposed Metro rail projects in Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada.

The projects together will create a Metro network of nearly 84 km across the two Andhra Pradesh cities.

The estimated combined cost of the projects is ₹21,616 crore.

The projects are proposed to be implemented under a joint-venture model between the Centre and the Andhra Pradesh Government.

Both the Centre and State are expected to contribute 20% each, while the remaining 60% will be raised through loans from financial institutions. 

The approved DPRs have been forwarded to the Union Finance Ministry for financial appraisal.

The development marks an important step forward for Visakhapatnam’s long-pending Metro rail plans.

The proposed Metro is expected to strengthen public transport and improve connectivity across the expanding city.

The approval comes as Visakhapatnam continues to witness rapid urbanisation, infrastructure development and population growth.

Meanwhile, Hyderabad’s Metro Phase II proposals continue to await approval from the Centre.

The contrast has triggered political criticism in Telangana, with the State alleging delays in approving its Metro expansion plans. 

For Vizag, however, the clearance represents a significant milestone towards establishing a modern mass-transit system.