VMRDA Proposes Four Theme-Based Townships for Visakhapatnam

The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) plans to develop four theme-based townships and cities in its jurisdiction, with a focus on integrated, self-sustained urban clusters with specific themes such as IT, health, education, tourism, logistics, and eco-resilience. The projects aim to attract domestic and foreign investments, generate 5-6 lakh jobs, and enhance the quality of life for residents. The development will be done through public-private partnerships, hybrid models, and support from national and international experts.

The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has announced an ambitious initiative to develop four theme-based townships in its jurisdiction. These townships, each centered around specific themes such as IT, health, education, tourism, logistics, and eco-resilience, aim to create integrated, self-sustained urban clusters. The projects are expected to attract significant domestic and foreign investments, generate around 5 to 6 lakh jobs, and enhance the quality of life for residents.

The development plan, announced by VMRDA Chairperson MV Pranav Gopal and Metropolitan Commissioner KS Viswanathan, is part of a long-term vision to transform Visakhapatnam into a future-ready coastal city. The townships will be developed through public-private partnerships, hybrid models, and with support from national and international experts in urban planning, architecture, and various knowledge sectors.

The first two townships are proposed at Kothavalasa village in Bheemunipatnam mandal and at Sontyam in Anandapuram. The remaining two locations are in the final stages of site identification. Each township will feature smart infrastructure with a strong focus on sustainable development, renewable energy systems, and proper water management. The projects are designed to encourage investments in specific sectors and attract professionals with relevant skills.

The initiative aligns with NITI Aayog's vision of transforming Visakhapatnam into the 'Bay City' or 'Miami of the East,' promoting integrated urban development and thematic growth nodes. The development model is expected to improve the quality of life for residents, attract both domestic and international investments, and support the city's growing urban needs.

The VMRDA has floated a request for proposal (RFP) for the selection of a transaction advisor to carry out pre-feasibility studies, prepare financial models, and manage the bid process. The advisor will also conduct stakeholder consultations and structure the project under appropriate funding models.

References:
[1] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/vmrda-to-develop-four-theme-based-townships-in-vizag/articleshow/123208063.cms
[2] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/vmrda-to-develop-four-theme-based-townships-in-vizag/articleshow/123208060.cms
[3] https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2025/Aug/09/vmrda-plans-theme-based-cities-to-boost-specific-sectors