The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has announced two landmark projects aimed at enhancing the city's infrastructure and tourism appeal: the East Coast Habitat Centre and the Vizag Experience and Virtual Reality Arena. These initiatives are set to transform Visakhapatnam's urban landscape, providing state-of-the-art facilities for residents and visitors alike.

East Coast Habitat Centre: A Multifaceted Urban Hub

Inspired by New Delhi's India Habitat Centre, the East Coast Habitat Centre is planned for an 8.82-acre site in Rushikonda. This comprehensive development will feature:

• Commercial Office Spaces: Modern workspaces designed to accommodate businesses of all sizes.

• Business Centre and Auditorium/Event Hall: Facilities equipped to host conferences, seminars, and cultural events.

• Art Gallery and Trade-cum-Exhibition Hall: Spaces dedicated to showcasing art and facilitating trade exhibitions.

• Hospitality Options: Including a business/boutique hotel and service apartments to cater to diverse accommodation needs.

• Premium Club with Memberships: Offering recreational amenities such as a sports centre, party/event lawns, and fine dining restaurants.

• Retail and Essential Services: A food court, supermarket, medical centre, banks, and ATMs to serve daily needs.

This project aims to create a multifunctional space that caters to individuals, corporations, governmental bodies, and non-resident Indians (NRIs), addressing the growing demand for such facilities in Visakhapatnam.

Vizag Experience and Virtual Reality Arena: A Technological Tourism Boost

Recognizing Visakhapatnam's tourism potential, VMRDA has proposed the Vizag Experience and Virtual Reality Arena, to be developed on a 2.82-acre plot along Law College Road in Rushikonda. This cutting-edge destination will combine virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and interactive gaming to offer visitors innovative technological experiences. Key components include:

• 360-Degree Immersive Theatre: Providing an all-encompassing visual experience.

• Mixed Reality Escape Room and Thematic Animation Show: Engaging attractions that blend storytelling with technology.

• Virtual Time Travel and Heritage Experience: Allowing visitors to explore historical events and cultural heritage through VR.

• VR Gaming Zone and Aquarium: Offering entertainment options for diverse age groups.

• Drive-in Food Zone: Featuring app-enabled dining, all-time cafés, a food court, and fine dining establishments.

• 3-Star Boutique Hotel: Providing comfortable accommodations for tourists and business travelers.