NH 516-E to Boost Tourism in Visakhapatnam

Soon to boost tourism in Visakhapatnam district is the scenic NH 516-E that will connect Araku to Hyderabad and Vijayawada. Travellers no longer need to take the usual route via Visakhapatnam city. They can now directly head to Araku from Rajahmundry through Rampachodavaram and Lambasingi.

The ride will take travellers through Chintapalli and Paderu inhabited by Khond tribe, lending the drive a native touch. The distance that needs to be travelled will be reduced by 50 KMS and tourists can avoid the hassle of taking a flight to Vizag from Hyderabad, not to mention the 120 KM drive or train ride to Araku from there. Now they can just cruise through the landscape of Eastern Ghats and reach their destination faster.

The existing narrow road network might soon be developed into a national highway from Rajahmundry to Vizianagaram. The existing route from Rajahmundry to Araku has been christened as the NG 516-E. The road is touted to be 10 meters wide with subways and central medians. Rs 2000 crore is the expected cost of the project, with the centre bearing the cost.

The route will pass through Rampachodavaram, Lambasingi, Chintapalli and Paderu before touching Araku. It will connect Vizianagaram through Srungabarapukota. APTDC will be developing resorts at Lambasingi at a cost of Rs 5 crore.

Story Credit: Times of India