Tue Jun 24 03:08:27 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on the information:

**Summary:**

The article reports on the progress of the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail (VMR) project, specifically focusing on the land acquisition required for the construction of two Metro Rail Depots (MRDs). The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is studying the project. The depots are planned for the Old Dairy Farm area and near the Visakhapatnam Port Authority. Each depot requires 35-40 acres. The total land needed for the first phase of the project is about 100 acres, costing around ₹890 crore. A Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is underway, as per the RFCTLARR Act, 2013, to assess the project’s impact and explore alternatives. The land includes both private and government land. The district administration is awaiting the final SIA report before proceeding with land allocation.

**News Article:**

**Vizag Metro Rail Project Advances: Land Acquisition Process Underway**

*Visakhapatnam, June 24, 2025* – Progress continues on the Visakhapatnam Metro Rail (VMR) project as district authorities work to acquire the necessary land for the construction of two crucial Metro Rail Depots (MRDs). The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank is currently studying the proposed metro rail stretches. The depots, essential for the maintenance, storage, and operation of metro trains, are planned for locations at the Old Dairy Farm (near VIMS) and near the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA).

Each depot will require approximately 35-40 acres of land. In total, the first phase of the 46.23 km project necessitates about 100 acres, with land acquisition costs estimated at ₹890 crore.

A Social Impact Assessment (SIA) is being conducted to evaluate the project’s public interest, land requirements, potential alternatives, and impact on local food security, in compliance with the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement (RFCTLARR) Act, 2013. The SIA survey was officially announced on May 30, 2025.

According to data from the A.P. Metro Rail Corporation (APMRC), the land needed includes over 9 acres of private land and 87 acres of government land.

“The Visakhapatnam district administration is currently working on land allocation related works,” said APMRC Managing Director N.P. Ramakrishna Reddy. “We are waiting for a call from the Visakhapatnam Collector, who may receive the final SIA report soon.”

The completion of the land acquisition process marks a significant step forward for the much-anticipated VMR project, which promises to improve transportation and connectivity within Visakhapatnam.

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