Inclusive growth for Visakhapatnam: R&R, water security, accessibility must, says NITI Aayog

NITI Aayog Member V. Bala Subramanyam has said that the Visakhapatnam Economic Region (VER) must be developed as a driver of inclusive growth, with industrial investments accompanied by proper rehabilitation and resettlement (R&R) arrangements for displaced families. He also called for faster implementation of tourism projects to improve the State's brand image.

Reviewing the progress of the VER at the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) office on Monday (August 10, 2026), Mr. Bala commended the State government for its contribution to national development programmes and capacity-building efforts.

He emphasised the need for a long-term approach to drinking water security, heritage conservation, and the development of infrastructure accessible to all sections of society, including persons with disabilities. He also suggested engaging institutions such as IIT Tirupati to offer specialised courses in project management and legal frameworks for officials involved in the region's development.

During the meeting, VER Chief Executive Officer N. Yuvraj presented an overview of the three-tier governance structure, comprising the State-level Steering Committee, the Executive Committee, and the Implementation Committee. He noted that Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu had reviewed the programme on multiple occasions.

Mr. Yuvraj also highlighted key projects, including the Mittal steel plant and its associated R&R mechanism, and the Visakhapatnam Bay City project, which is expected to boost coastal economic activity.

GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg provided updates on urban infrastructure projects, including underground drainage networks, Central Business District development, slum redevelopment, measures to address drinking water scarcity, and the proposed Visakhapatnam Metro Rail project. District Tourism Officer Madhavi Lata said that the AP Home Stay scheme was gaining popularity among tourists.

The meeting was attended by NITI Aayog programme director Kishore, Visakhapatnam Port deputy chairman Roshini Aparanji, and representatives of trade bodies, industry chambers, petroleum firms, ports, hospitality, banking, and steel manufacturing sectors.