VMRDA to develop Urban Habitat Centre in Rushikonda

Visakhapatnam: The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA), in its recent 'Authority' meeting, granted approval for the construction of an ‘Urban Habitat Centre' in Rushikonda area, with an estimated cost of Rs 470 crore. The project aims to create a modern and multifunctional urban hub, modelled after the India Habitat Centre in Delhi.

Spanning an area of 8.82 acres, this development will be designed to meet the growing needs of Vizag city. The proposed centre will feature a variety of facilities, including corporate office space, a business centre, a convention/event centre, a clubhouse with various amenities, a hotel, and native and international food restaurants.

Proposed under the public-private partnership model, revenue-generating components such as office rentals, event hosting, dining services, retail leases, and hotel accommodations are strategically planned to enhance the feasibility of the project and local economy.

The centre in Visakhapatnam is envisioned as a landmark destination that integrates cultural, social, and economic activities, fostering community engagement and regional growth. The development is currently undergoing market studies to ensure its sustainable implementation.

According to VMRDA officials, the initiative has been proposed in light of the developments taking place in the IT industry and housing sector in Visakhapatnam, including the proposed data centre and other gated community housing projects near Madhurawada and IT Hills in Rushikonda. The area has recently seen several high-end housing and infrastructure projects. While Infosys has already commenced operations in the Rushikonda area, the proposed centres of TCS and Google are expected to choose the same destination in and around Madhurawada.

Meanwhile, the govt has allocated nearly 200 acres for the Adani data centre project in the same area, which recently received environmental clearance. If realised, the nearly 9-acre habitat project will be the first-of-its-kind in Visakhapatnam.

It will include spaces for conventions, trade fairs, and business exhibitions, as well as dedicated areas for showcasing local and international art and cultural performances. The centre will also have art galleries and exhibition halls designed to accommodate up to 1,000 people, providing platforms for both creative and commercial endeavours.

Recreational and hospitality offerings will include a 60-room hotel for business and leisure travellers, dining options featuring local and international cuisines with seating for over 700 guests, and a fitness block with gym facilities and provisions for tennis, badminton, and mini-golf.

The business and office spaces will span over 42,000 square metres, offering offices for corporate and IT industries, along with conference halls, business cabins, and seminar rooms with varying capacities ranging from 25 to 1,000 participants.