The Indian central government has approved the metro projects for Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada with a total volume of EUR 2.1 billion (INR 225 billion). A network of around 46.23 km with three corridors and roughly 42 stations is planned for Visakhapatnam, entirely as an elevated network. Connections are planned between Steel Plant Junction and Kommadi, Gurudwara Junction and the Old Post Office area, and Thatichetlapalem and China Waltair. The project will be implemented as a public-private partnership (PPP), with Systra acting as general consultant. Cost estimates are EUR 1.1 billion for Visakhapatnam and EUR 1 billion for Vijayawada, subject to further adjustments after finalisation and awarding of contracts. A share of 40% of the financing will be provided by the central government and the remainder will be covered by external lenders. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has signalled its interest in providing financing. The start of operation for the metro networks is scheduled to occur in stages starting in 2029.
