VISAKHAPATNAM: The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has issued a request for proposals (RFP) to select a transaction advisor for the development of four theme-based townships in Kothavalasa village of Bheemili mandal, Sontyam in Anandapuram mandal, and two additional locations. Covering an approximate area of 500 acres, these projects will create integrated and self-sustaining urban clusters.
Each township will revolve around distinct themes, including IT and innovation, health and wellness, education, tourism, and culture. Given their proximity to the IT hub in Madhurawada and the emerging industries in Anandapuram and Bheemili, these townships aim to foster a walk-to-work culture.
The main responsibilities of the transaction advisor will include conducting pre-feasibility studies and developing a financial model for the projects. They will also prepare a feasibility report and detailed project plan, engage stakeholders, structure the project for self-funding or public-private partnerships, create bid documents, conduct market assessments, manage the bidding process for the VMRDA, and assist in selecting the developer.
Recently, the Andhra Pradesh government paused the application process for MIG layouts, directing urban development authorities to proceed with unlaunched MIG projects via a commercial auction model. At this point, the VMRDA is set to create several new layouts throughout its jurisdiction, including Anakapalli, Vizianagaram, and Visakhapatnam districts.
According to VMRDA officials, these theme-based townships will focus on high-quality projects that extend beyond standard urban planning. The initiative aims to reimagine urban living, where infrastructure, industry, and community coexist harmoniously. This model is designed to fulfill the ambitions of a smart, inclusive, and forward-thinking city.
VMRDA chairperson MV Pranav Gopal and metropolitan commissioner KS Viswanathan remarked that these theme-based cities represent a significant step toward sustainable urban innovation. “Visakhapatnam, one of India’s rapidly developing urban centers, is poised to transform its landscape with the introduction of these thematic cities. This bold initiative aims to foster sector-specific growth, improve urban living conditions, and stimulate economic progress,” they stated.
“With its natural harbor, connectivity, and geopolitical importance, Visakhapatnam is ideally suited for this innovative urban model. This project is anticipated to attract both domestic and international investments, create 500,000 to 600,000 jobs, and enhance residents’ quality of life. Development will occur through public-private partnerships, EPC methods, and hybrid models, with guidance from experts in urban planning, architecture, structural design, and engineering. Environmental sustainability, inclusivity, and community involvement will be central to all planning and execution phases,” the chairperson and commissioner further explained.
Notably, NITI Aayog, through its Growth Hub initiative, has envisioned Vizag as the ‘Bay City’ or ‘Miami of the East,’ advocating for integrated urban development and thematic growth zones. The VMRDA is working on various initiatives aligned with this vision.
