A view of the coastal corridor between Kailasagiri and Bheemili earmarked for the ambitious 'Vizag Bay City' initiative.
| Photo Credit: V. RAJU
VISAKHAPATNAMThe Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has invited bids to appoint a global consultant for its ambitious ‘Vizag Bay City’ project.The initiative aims to transform the coastline between Kailasagiri and Bheemunipatnam into a world-class integrated waterfront hub.The Request for Proposal (RFP), issued recently, sought a specialised firm to prepare an exhaustive area development plan and a catalytic project strategy, following recommendations from a NITI Aayog report which identified the region as a national growth hub within the larger Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER).Interested consultancy firms have until April 2, 2026, to submit their technical and financial proposals. VMRDA officials have emphasised that the selection process will prioritise firms with experience in large-scale urban waterfront developments and smart city technologies.Inspired by global waterfront models such as Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach and Miami’s Bayshore Corridor, the 40-square-kilometre project is designed around the three strategic pillars of tourism, business innovation, and premium living.The plan includes the development of five major beachfronts at Sagar Nagar, Thotlakonda, Rushikonda, Mangamaripeta, and Bheemili, featuring a 75-acre adventure theme park, three new Blue Flag-certified beaches, and a dedicated marina for luxury sailing.To boost the local economy, the 'Bay City' will house innovation districts and corporate parks specifically designed to attract Global Capability Centres (GCCs), fintech firms, and deep-tech companies, while also envisaging nearly 11 million square feet of high-end residential space.Speaking to The Hindu, VMRDA Chairman M.V. Pranav Gopal said: “The project is a cornerstone of the State government’s vision for `Vizag 2.0’ and will be seamlessly integrated into the revised Master Plan-2041. Proposals should be based without violating the CRZ norms.”The proposed Vizag-Bhogapuram coastal corridor, featuring a 60-metre-wide scenic road with an elevated section near Rushikonda, will serve as the primary artery for the hub, ensuring smooth connectivity to the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport, he added.A senior VMRDA official noted that the project is intended to redefine Visakhapatnam’s identity on the global map through a strategy that balances rapid economic growth with environmental conservation and the city’s unique maritime heritage.In addition to the '’Bay City' RFP, the authority is currently managing several related iconic projects, including the bidding for a 50-storey residential tower in Madhurawada and the development of commercial spaces behind VMRDA Udyog Bhavan. The project is expected to attract 1.5 million international and high-value domestic tourists annually by 2032, cementing the region’s status as a premier destination for both business and leisure. Published - March 19, 2026 07:19 pm IST
