Visakhapatnam is expected to see a significant increase in the number of vehicles on its roads during the Dasara festive season, with more than 6,000 new vehicles anticipated to join the city’s growing vehicle population. The development comes amid a sharp rise in festive-season automobile sales, according to a report published by The Times of India on October 19, 2026.

 

Vehicle sales rise by around 30%

Vehicle sales in Visakhapatnam increased by approximately 30% in October compared with the previous month, despite higher vehicle prices. Dealers expect the demand to continue through Deepavali, as many residents choose the festive period to purchase new vehicles.

Two-wheelers accounted for a major share of the increase. Motorcycles and scooters have attracted buyers seeking convenient transportation for local travel, particularly as public transport services such as buses and auto-rickshaws can become crowded.

Women purchasing scooters for trips to shops and markets, along with younger customers buying motorcycles and scooters, contributed to the increase in demand. Car sales were comparatively slower, with dealers collectively selling around 200 cars during Dasara, the report stated.

 

Two-wheelers and electric scooters see demand

According to Y Raghu Ram, managing partner of Jupiter Honda in Vizag, many buyers preferred 125 cc motorcycles because of their performance and mileage.

The report also highlighted increased demand for electric two-wheelers. Four to six agencies selling electric scooters in the city reportedly faced difficulties supplying vehicles to customers on time.

Some prospective car buyers were discouraged by peak-hour traffic congestion, higher vehicle prices and road blockages associated with ongoing infrastructure projects. These factors influenced purchasing decisions even as festive demand remained strong.

 

Annual vehicle growth adds to traffic concerns

Deputy Transport Commissioner Ch Srinivas said approximately 50,000 vehicles are added to Visakhapatnam’s roads every year. The number of new vehicles joining the city’s roads during the combined Dasara and Diwali festive period typically ranges between 5,000 and 7,000.

The expected festive increase comes as Visakhapatnam continues to experience growing demand for personal transportation. The combination of additional vehicles, peak-hour congestion and infrastructure-related road restrictions highlights the importance of effective traffic management and road planning.

The estimate of more than 6,000 vehicles is a projection reported ahead of the festive period, rather than a confirmed count of vehicles already registered or operating on the roads.