Visakhapatnam: Social Welfare Minister Bala Veeranjaneya Swamy, on his first visit to Visakhapatnam as the district's in-charge minister, outlined plans for comprehensive regional development aimed at enhancing the city’s reputation.
During discussions with party leaders and officials at the district collectorate, Minister Swamy emphasized improving road access to the Bhogapuram International Airport to cut travel time from the city center to just 45 minutes. He proposed the construction of flyovers at 12 critical intersections from Lankelapalem to Bhogapuram and suggested widening National Highway 16 alongside exploring a new route linking the beach to the airport.
GMR representatives presented a PowerPoint overview of their projects, while VMRDA officials showcased a master plan for the city. Pollution control and innovative policing strategies were also discussed, with a focus on maintaining law and order across Visakhapatnam.
Concerns over unresolved issues in Simhachalam Pancha Gramas and the need for underground drainage improvements were raised, and Swamy highlighted the importance of cyclone-preventive measures to manage rainwater and enhance public safety.
Visakha MP Sribharat proposed synchronizing the metro project with road expansions to streamline connectivity to Bhogapuram airport. Minister Swamy stressed the need for educational institutions to avoid excessive fees and promptly return students' certificates.
Key attendees included MLCs Duvwarapu Rama Rao, Vepada Chiranjeevi Rao, MLAs Palla Srinivasa Rao, Ganababu, Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu, Panchakarma Ramesh Babu, Vamsikrishna Srinivas, as well as district and police officials.