Visakhapatnam to Lead India's South Coast Railway: Historic Leap for Andhra Pradesh

In a landmark development, Andhra Pradesh's dream of having a dedicated railway zone is realized with the establishment of the South Coast Railway Zone, headquartered at Visakhapatnam. This move aims to enhance transportation, stimulate industrial growth in North Andhra, and improve employment and infrastructure in the state.

On Tuesday, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu announced that a longstanding dream of the state's people has been fulfilled. The Railway Ministry has issued a gazette notification establishing the South Coast Railway Zone (SCR), with Visakhapatnam designated as its headquarters.

The SCR is expected to commence operations on June 1, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the reorganisation of the state's transport sector. Naidu emphasized that this change will transform the transportation infrastructure of North Andhra, aiding in industrial growth by merging key sections, such as Palasa–Ichchapuram into the Visakhapatnam Division.

The Chief Minister extended his gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw for their favorable decision on this issue, stating that the coordination between the new Visakhapatnam Division and the Rayagada Division will bolster the state's railway system. He voiced optimism about the potential for improved railway infrastructure and job opportunities with this new addition.