The Union govt has given its in-principle approval for the construction of a greenfield national highway connecting the Nizampatnam fishing harbour with the proposed Amaravati Outer Ring Road (ORR), a move that is expected to boost marine exports and tourism projects in the region.
After conducting an in-depth study over several months, the consultancy agency appointed by the Centre has proposed four possible alignments for the highway, taking into account factors such as land acquisition costs, economic feasibility, and distance.
The proposed 48-kilometer greenfield highway is expected to cost around ₹1,400 crore, with ₹300 crore allocated for land acquisition and the remaining amount covering the construction of the highway and bridges.
The highway will have to cross the river and canals at least 24 points, including a railway track near Tsundur, and the consultancy agency has proposed the construction of a Rail Over Bridge (ROB) at the railway track and high-level bridges at canal crossing points.
The project is expected to be a game-changer for the development of the backward coastal area and fishermen, with local MP T Krishna Prasad stating that the increase in marine product exports will help local fishermen gain better prices. The proposed highway will also improve access to scenic tourist spots along Suryalanka and Bapatla beaches, boosting tourism in the region.
According to sources, the Centre is likely to give its final clearance for the project in a few weeks, with the Narakoduru junction near Guntur to Nizampatnam route expected to be the most feasible option.
The Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board (APMB) has already issued a no-objection certificate for the construction of the highway on its land near Nizampatnam harbour.
