In a significant development for North Andhra Pradesh, the state government is evaluating the feasibility of upgrading four key roads to four-lane highways.
The proposed upgrades will improve access to tribal areas and connect crucial interstate routes. The four roads under consideration will serve areas across Vizianagaram and Srikakulam districts, and extend to the border districts of Odisha.
This initiative aims to bolster connectivity, enhance spiritual tourism, and alleviate traffic congestion in the region
One of the key proposals includes a 160 km stretch from Vizianagaram to Palasa. This route will connect Chipurupalli, Rajam, Palakonda, Kotturu in Andhra Pradesh, and Parlakhemundi in Odisha, as well as Meliaputti, Chapara, and Palasa in Srikakulam.
Vizianagaram MP, Kalisetti Appala Naidu highlighted that this road will facilitate interstate travel and support local tribal communities by providing better access to markets for their crops.
Additional proposed upgrades include a 60 km road from Rambhadrapuram to Chilakapalem, which will pass through Rajam and Ponduru, and another road from Rambhadrapuram to Rayagada in Odisha via Parvathipuram, reports Times Of India.
The latter route will also become an important interstate corridor.
Moreover, the stretch from Nellimarla Junction to Ranastalam via Ramatheerdhalu is set to be developed into a four-lane road to support spiritual tourism. This route will connect key religious sites such as the Majji Gairamma temple in Rayagada and the Lord Kodanda Rama Swamy temple in Ramatheerdham.
Naidu emphasised the importance of these roads for ensuring a smooth journey between tribal regions and major cities like Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam. He urged the government to expedite the project and begin construction at the earliest.