VISAKHAPATNAM: The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has initiated an extensive survey of 66 slums throughout the city to evaluate housing, infrastructure, and amenities. According to the survey results, slums that have reached a certain developmental threshold will be denotified, while others will be redeveloped through a public-private partnership (PPP) model. This initiative is part of a larger plan under NITI Aayog’s Vizag Growth Hub aimed at enhancing the Visakhapatnam Economic Region.
Two slums—Velampeta and Indira Nagar—have already been earmarked for redevelopment under the PPP model, with tenders currently issued. The GVMC also intends to amend the Municipal Corporation Act of 1979 to create a Slum Rehabilitation Authority.
Slums exist in various parts of Visakhapatnam, driven by opportunities in education, employment, and other economic activities. This has led to a transformation in many slums, characterized by high-rise buildings and a shift in social and economic conditions. Nonetheless, issues such as narrow roads and outdated water supply and drainage systems remain significant challenges in most areas. The GVMC survey aims to discern which slums have made progress and which require additional support.
GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg explained that the slums will be divided into two categories based on the survey results. “One group will be denotified as slums, while the other will enter the redevelopment program. Our goal is to undertake the redevelopment of all these slums as a single initiative to pave the way for a slum-free city,” he stated.
“Having completed feasibility studies, prepared detailed project reports, explored financial avenues, and secured necessary approvals from the state government, we have initiated tenders for the redevelopment of Velampeta and Indira Nagar. The work is expected to take approximately two years from the start date. We have received consent from each beneficiary after discussing all aspects of the project,” Garg added.
GVMC is offering beneficiaries of both slums—who will need to vacate for around two years—two options. One option includes receiving nearly 18 months of advance rent, while the other will provide alternative housing at another site. Officials estimate that about 70-80% of beneficiaries prefer the rental choice, allowing them to remain in the same locality, where most are employed. Velampeta will be developed into a G+12 building to accommodate 177 families, while Indira Nagar will feature a G+6 structure for 110 families.
