Smart City Visakhapatnam: Mission, Objective, Projects & Current Status

Once known primarily for its beaches and crowded port, Smart City Visakhapatnam is now leading urban transformation. With a vision to blend technology, sustainability, and infrastructure, Vizag is evolving into a city of the future. From smart traffic systems and digital governance to eco-friendly initiatives and modern public transport, the town embraces innovation at every level. The focus is clear: creating a cleaner, greener, and more efficient urban experience for its residents. With thriving industries, a booming IT sector, and growing investment opportunities, Visakhapatnam is not just a coastal gem but a hub of progress. As it moves towards a seamless digital ecosystem and improved quality of life, the city is setting a benchmark for urban development in India. The future is here, and Visakhapatnam is ready to lead the way.

Objective of Visakhapatnam Smart City

The Visakhapatnam Smart City initiative aims to transform the city into a modern, sustainable urban centre by focusing on several key objectives:

1. Integrated Infrastructure Planning: Developing a comprehensive master plan that aligns with the city’s strategic blueprint, emphasising the creation of infrastructure to support IT hubs and skill development centres.
   
2. Sustainable Development: Implementing standalone solar-powered streetlights enhances energy efficiency and reduces the city’s carbon footprint.
   
3. Economic Growth and Innovation: Promoting economic progress through innovative technology and environmentally friendly development, establishing Visakhapatnam as a centre for commerce and culture.
   
4. Resilience Building: Developing institutional, physical, social, and economic infrastructure to create a resilient urban environment capable of adapting to future challenges.
   
5. Enhanced Quality of Life: Providing robust infrastructure and basic amenities alongside smart solutions to improve residents’ overall quality of life. 

Visakhapatnam Smart City Projects

Visakhapatnam, also known as Vizag, has been transformed into a smart city. This is achieved through extensive projects that focus on improving the city’s infrastructure, governance, and overall quality of life for its residents. These efforts are part of India’s Smart Cities Mission, which aims to foster sustainable and inclusive urban growth.

Master Planning and Infrastructure Development

In 2016, AECOM was commissioned to develop a master plan and sector-specific smart infrastructure projects for Visakhapatnam. This plan includes various components: urban development, open spaces, information and communication technology (ICT), mobility solutions, water and sewerage systems, energy, social infrastructure, housing, and resilience strategies. The objective was to create an integrated framework that leverages existing assets and technological advancements to guide the city’s transformation into a smart urban centre.

Pan-City Proposals

Visakhapatnam’s pan-city proposal focuses on integrating effective e-governance with an enhanced disaster management system. This initiative aims to establish an intelligent, data-driven, and people-centric smart city by ensuring the delivery of e-services, efficient city administration, and robust emergency response mechanisms. 

Visakhapatnam Metro Rail Project

A planned rapid transit system aims to reduce traffic congestion and provide a modern public transport solution. The project envisions a combination of metro and tram systems, covering approximately 140 km. As of December 2023, the Detailed Project Report (DPR) has been approved, with operations expected to commence by 2028. 

Fintech Valley Vizag

Launched in December 2016, this initiative seeks to position Visakhapatnam as a hub for financial technology. It focuses on attracting investments and fostering innovation in blockchain, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence sectors. 

Don’t Miss It!

Visakhapatnam Smart City Map

Visakhapatnam is transforming significantly through the Smart City Visakhapatnam initiative, emphasising infrastructure development and better public services. The Smart City Visakhapatnam Map is a comprehensive guide showcasing key facilities that drive the city’s modernisation. It outlines essential details on transportation networks, healthcare facilities, educational institutions, and recreational areas, giving residents and visitors a clear understanding of available resources. Designed for seamless navigation, the map highlights Visakhapatnam’s ongoing progress while improving accessibility to important services. For more information on development projects, the official Visakhapatnam Smart City portal offers regular updates and insights.

source: mapsofindia

Visakhapatnam Smart City: Citizen Services

Visakhapatnam’s Smart City portal has significantly improved citizen services by integrating technology-driven solutions to improve accessibility, efficiency, and engagement.

Digital Platforms for Citizen Services

The ‘Smart Vizag by GVMC’ app provides residents access to municipal services, including tax payments, water connections, property details, and public amenities. It also allows issue reporting, emergency contacts, and real-time city data.

The ‘MeeSeva’ portal streamlines over 329 government-to-citizen (G2C) and business (G2B) services, covering certificates, permits, and licenses.

Integrated Command and Control Center (ICCC)

The ICCC monitors infrastructure, traffic, and emergencies in real time, ensuring efficient city management. It played an important role during COVID-19 by tracking health data and coordinating responses.

Citizen Engagement & Feedback

A public participation portal keeps residents informed and involved in urban planning, allowing feedback and suggestions for city improvements.

Comprehensive Service Access

The Visakhapatnam district website provides a centralised hub for applications related to birth/death certificates, grievances, social security, and revenue services, ensuring easy access to essential services.

FAQ’s about Smart City Visakhapatnam