Visakhapatnam: Difference between revisions
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{{short description|Metropolis in Andhra Pradesh, India}} |
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{{redirect|Visag|the [[Romania]]n village|Victor Vlad Delamarina, Timiş|the Romanian village of Vişagu, called Viság in [[Hungarian language|Hungarian]]|Săcuieu}} |
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{{redirect|Waltair|former Congolese airline|Waltair (DR Congo)}} |
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{{refimprove|date=July 2011}} |
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{{Use Indian English|date=October 2023}} |
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{{Use dmy dates|date=October 2023}} |
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{{Infobox Indian jurisdiction |
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{{Multiple issues|{{More citations needed|date=April 2021}} |
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|native_name = Visakhapatnam |
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{{Primary sources|date=April 2021}} |
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(విశాఖపట్నం) |
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{{Update|date=April 2021|reason=several sections of the article are outdated and require an update}} |
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|former_name = Waltair |
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|other_name = Vizag |
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|type = Metropolitan City |
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|type_2 = |
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|latd=17 |latm=41 |lats=18.16 |
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|longd=83 |longm=13 |longs=07.53 |
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|locator_position = right |
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|base_map_alt = Visakhapatnam is on the east coast of India. |
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|skyline = Vizag-arealview.jpg.JPG |
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|skyline_alt = Visakhapatnam |
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|skyline_caption = Aerial view of Visakhapatnam. |
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|state_name = Andhra Pradesh |
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|district = [[Visakhapatnam district|Visakhapatnam]] |
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|language=Telugu language |
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|leader_title_2 = [[Mayor]] |
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|leader_name_2 = P. Janardhana Rao |
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|leader_title = [[Municipal commissioner]] |
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|leader_name = B. Ramanjaneyulu |
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|altitude = 5 |
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|population_total = 1,730,320 |
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|population_total_cite = |
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|per capita income = |
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|GDP = |
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|Stock Market = |
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|population_as_of = 2011 |
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|population_rank = 17th |
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|population_metro = |
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|population_metro_cite = |
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|population_metro_as_of = 2011 |
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|population_metro_rank = |
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|population_density = 3,240 |
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|hdi = |
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|area_magnitude = 8 |
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|area_total = 543 |
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|area_telephone = +91-0891-XXXX XXXX |
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|postal_code = 530 0XX |
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|vehicle_code_range = AP31 – 34 |
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|unlocode = IN VTZ |
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|seal = |
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|seal_size = |
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|seal_alt = |
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|seal_caption = |
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|website = |
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|footnotes = |
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}} |
}} |
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{{Infobox settlement |
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'''Visakhapatnam''' ({{lang-te|విశాఖపట్నం}} {{audio|Visakhapatnam.ogg|pronunciation}}) also called as Vaishakhapuram (shortened and anglicized as: Vaishakh->Vaizak->Vizag, finally pronounced as 'yzag') is a major sea port on the south east coast of [[India]]. With a population of approximately 1.7 million, it is the second largest city in the state of [[Andhra Pradesh]] and the third largest city on the east coast of [[India]] after Kolkata and Chennai. According to the history, the city was named after the god of Valor, Visakha. It is located {{convert|625|km|mi|0}} east of state capital, [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]]. The city is nestled among the hills of the [[Eastern Ghats]] and faces the [[Bay of Bengal]] to the east. It is the administrative headquarters of [[Visakhapatnam district]] and is also headquarters to the [[Eastern Naval Command]] of the [[Indian Navy]]. Visakhapatnam is often referred to as ''The Jewel of The East Coast''{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}} or ''The City of Destiny'' and is sometimes referred to as the "Goa of the East Coast." Just like its west coast counterpart, it has beautiful virgin beaches, laterite hillocks, smooth roads and stunning landscape. Health-tourism is a fast developing industry{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}. |
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| name = Visakhapatnam |
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| other_name = Vizag, Vizagapatam, Visakha, Waltair<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.yovizag.com/waltair-visakhapatnam-city-of-destiny/|title=How Waltair flourished to become Visakhapatnam, the City of Destiny|date=18 August 2019}}</ref> |
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| settlement_type = [[Metropolis]] |
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| image_skyline = {{multiple image |
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| border = infobox |
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| total_width = 280 |
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| image_style = |
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| perrow = 1/2/2/1 |
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| image1 = Vizag View from Kailasagiri.jpg {{!}} City scape |
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| image2 = Damaged lighthouse.jpg {{!}} Old Lighthouse |
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| image3 = Eilat_20-05-2012_MV_Goa.JPG |
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| image4 = Kambalakonda wildlife sanctuary Landscape.jpg {{!}} Kambalakonda |
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| image5 = Shiva and Parvati statues in Kailsagiri park 02.jpg {{!}} Kailasagiri statues |
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| image6 = Cargo Ship and breakwaters.jpg {{!}} Vizag port}} |
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| image_alt = <!-- There are individual alt texts for each image in the collage in the infobox --> |
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| image_caption = '''Clockwise from top''': Skyline of Visakhapatnam, MV Goa built at [[Hindustan Shipyard]] in Vizag, Lord Shiva & Parvathi statues on [[Kailasagiri]], [[Visakhapatnam Port]], [[Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary]] and Old Vizag Lighthouse on [[RK Beach]] |
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| etymology = <!-- There is a dispute over the name of Visakhapatnam (Visakha/Ishaq) --> |
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| nickname = The City of Destiny<br />The Jewel of the East Coast<!-- Financial Capital cannot be regarded as a nickname --> |
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| pushpin_map = India Visakhapatnam#India Andhra Pradesh#India |
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| pushpin_label_position = left |
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| pushpin_map_alt = |
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| pushpin_map_caption = |
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| coordinates = {{coord|17|42|15|N|83|17|52|E|display=inline,title}} |
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| subdivision_type = Country |
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| subdivision_name = {{flag|India}} |
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| subdivision_type1 = [[States and union territories of India|State]] |
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| subdivision_name1 = [[Andhra Pradesh]] |
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| subdivision_type2 = [[List of districts in Andhra Pradesh|Districts]] |
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| subdivision_name2 = [[Visakhapatnam district|Visakhapatnam]], [[Anakapalli district|Anakapalli]] |
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| subdivision_type3 = |
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| subdivision_name3 = |
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| established_title = |
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| established_date = |
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| established_title1 = Incorporated (town) |
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| established_date1 = 1865 |
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| established_title2 = Incorporated (city) |
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| established_date2 = 1979 |
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| founder = |
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| seat_type = |
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| seat = |
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| government_footnotes = <!-- for references: use <ref> |
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tags --> |
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| government_type = [[Municipal Corporations in India|Municipal Corporation]] |
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| governing_body = [[Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation|GVMC]], [[Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority|VMRDA]] |
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| leader_party = [[YSRCP]] |
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| leader_title = [[Mayor]] |
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| leader_name = Golagani Hari Venkata Kumari<ref>{{cite news |title=Vizag mayor: Golagani Hari Venkata Kumari of YSRCP elected mayor of Visakhapatnam {{!}} Visakhapatnam News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/golagani-hari-venkata-kumari-of-ysrc-elected-as-mayor-of-visakhapatnam/articleshow/81565973.cms |work=The Times of India}}</ref> |
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| unit_pref = Metric |
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| area_footnotes = <ref>{{cite news |title=Vizag metro gets in-principle nod {{!}} Visakhapatnam News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Vizag-Metro-Rail-DPR-gets-in-principle-nod/articleshow/28158834.cms |work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Vizag tops the list of most populated districts in AP {{!}} Visakhapatnam News - Yo Vizag |url=https://www.yovizag.com/vizag-highest-population-rate-andhra-pradesh/ |work=Yo Vizag}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Clean Visakha Green Visakha: Abstract|year=2018|pages=168–172|url=http://eprints.cmfri.org.in/12946/}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Now, GVMC area to be reorganised into 98 wards {{!}} Visakhapatnam News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/now-gvmc-area-to-be-reorganised-into-98-wards/articleshow/73103101.cms |work=The Times of India}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=Stakes high for 1st GVMC polls following merger of Bheemili&Anakapalli {{!}} Visakhapatnam News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/stakes-high-for-1st-gvmc-polls-following-merger-of-bheemili-anakapalli/articleshow/81317968.cms |work=The Times of India}}</ref> |
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| area_metro_footnotes = <ref>{{cite news |title=Vizag to expand: 13 mandals added to VMRDA, beach corridor and airport prioritised {{!}} The News Minute |url=https://www.thenewsminute.com/article/vizag-expand-13-mandals-added-vmrda-beach-corridor-and-airport-prioritised-145834 |work=The News Minute}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |title=VMRDA area now 7.3k sq km after addition of 13 mandals {{!}} Visakhapatnam News - Times of India |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/vmrda-area-now-7-3k-sq-km-after-addition-of-13-mandals/articleshow/81657001.cms |work=The Times of India}}</ref> |
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| area_note = |
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| area_rank = |
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| area_blank1_title = |
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| area_total_km2 = 640 |
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| area_metro_km2 = 7328.86 |
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| area_urban_km2 = |
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| elevation_footnotes = <ref name="geo">{{cite web|title=Maps, Weather, and Airports for Vishakhapatnam, India|url=http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/02/Vishakhapatnam.html|website=www.fallingrain.com|access-date=11 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170712082211/http://www.fallingrain.com/world/IN/02/Vishakhapatnam.html|archive-date=12 July 2017|url-status=live}} |
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</ref><ref name="climate">{{cite book|last1=Seta|first1=Fumihiko|last2=Biswas|first2=Arindam|last3=Khare|first3=Ajay|last4=Sen|first4=Joy|title=Understanding Built Environment: Proceedings of the National Conference on Sustainable Built Environment 2015|date=2016|publisher=Springer|isbn=9789811021381|page=98|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=VZbLDQAAQBAJ&q=visakhapatnam+tropical+climate&pg=PA98|access-date=11 July 2017|language=en}}</ref> |
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| elevation_m = |
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| population_as_of = 2011 |
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| population_footnotes = <ref name=ua2011>{{cite web|title=INDIA STATS : Million plus cities in India as per Census 2011|url=http://pibmumbai.gov.in/scripts/detail.asp?releaseId=E2011IS3|work=Press Information Bureau, Mumbai|publisher=[[National Informatics Centre]] (NIC)|access-date=7 February 2012}}</ref> |
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| population_total = 2091811 |
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| pop_est_as_of = 2021 |
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| pop_est_footnotes = <ref name=ua2021>{{cite news|title=INDIA STATS : Vizag's population to cross 30 lakh mark by 2035|website=[[The Times of India]] |date=11 July 2021 |url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/vizags-population-to-cross-30l-mark-by-35/articleshow/84302422.cms}}</ref> |
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| population_est = 2358412 |
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| population_rank = [[List of most populous cities in India|17th]] |
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| population_density_km2 = auto |
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| population_metro_footnotes = |
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| population_metro = |
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| population_demonym = Vizagite |
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| population_note = |
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| timezone1 = [[Indian Standard Time|IST]] |
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| utc_offset1 = +5:30 |
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| postal_code_type = [[Postal Index Number|PIN]] |
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| postal_code = 530 0XX, 531 1XX<ref>{{Cite web|title=Pin Codes of Visakhapatnam, Andhra-Pradesh, India, Visakhapatanam Pincode Search|url=https://indiapincodes.net/Andhra-pradesh/Visakhapatanam/|access-date=25 February 2022|website=indiapincodes.net}}</ref> |
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| area_code_type = Telephone code |
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| area_code = +91-891 |
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| registration_plate_type = [[Vehicle registration plate|Vehicle registration]] |
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| registration_plate = [[Vehicle registration plates of India#Current codes|'''AP-31, AP-32, AP-33, AP-34 , AP-39''']] |
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| blank_name_sec1 = {{nowrap|Official languages}} |
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| blank_info_sec1 = [[Telugu language|Telugu]] |
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| blank1_name_sec1 = [[Nominal GDP]](2023-24) |
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(Note: The following GDP Constitutes only for GVMC limits) |
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| blank1_info_sec1 = {{INRConvert|129571|c|year=2023}}<ref>https://des.ap.gov.in/MainPage.do?mode=menuBind&tabname=publications</ref> |
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| blank_name_sec2 = Contribution to state as a % of GDP |
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| blank_info_sec2 = 9% |
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| blank1_name_sec2 = [[GDP]](PPP) |
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| blank1_info_sec2 = |
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| website = *[https://www.gvmc.gov.in GVMC]{{refn|group=fn|Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation}} |
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*[http://vmrda.gov.in/Default.aspx VMRDA]{{refn|group=fn|Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority}} |
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*[https://visakhapatnam.ap.gov.in/ District Authority] |
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| footnotes = |
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| official_name = |
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| image_map = {{Infobox mapframe|frame=yes|plain=yes|frame-align=center|frame-width=250|frame-height=180|zoom=12|type=point|marker=city|wikidata=yes|coord={{coord|17.7279|83.3011}}}} |
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| map_caption = Interactive map |
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}} |
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'''Visakhapatnam''' ({{IPAc-en|v|ɪ|ˌ|s|ɑː|k|ə|ˈ|p|ʌ|t|n|ə|m}}; [[List of renamed places in India|formerly known]] as '''Vizagapatam''',<ref>{{Cite news |date=29 April 2023 |title=The untold story of Vizagapatam's 1780 mutiny |language=en-IN |work=The Hindu |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/the-untold-story-of-vizagapatams-1780-mutiny/article66788952.ece |access-date=16 June 2023 |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> also known as '''Vizag''', '''Viśākha''' or '''Waltair'''<ref name="auto"/><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.yovizag.com/shor-in-the-city-vizag/|title=Behind The Name - Vizag|website=Vizag -|access-date=17 April 2020}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=From Allahabad to Prayagraj: 20 cities that changed their names |url=https://indianexpress.com/article/india/india-news-india/gurgaon-new-name-gurugram-indian-cities-renamed/ |access-date=16 October 2018 |website=The New Indian Express| date=16 October 2018 }}</ref> is the largest and most populous metropolitan city in the [[States and union territories of India|Indian state]] of [[Andhra Pradesh]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Menon |first=Vandana |date=2024-05-01 |title=Why Vizag, financial capital powering Andhra Pradesh's economy, hasn't realised its potential |url=https://theprint.in/elections/why-vizag-financial-capital-powering-andhra-pradeshs-economy-hasnt-realised-its-potential/2063733/ |access-date=2024-09-05 |website=ThePrint |language=en-US}}</ref> It is between the [[Eastern Ghats]] and the coast of the [[Bay of Bengal]].<ref name="location">{{cite news|date=21 October 2014|title=In pics: Hudhud takes the green sheen off Vizag|work=Hindustan Times|url=http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/in-pics-hudhud-takes-the-green-sheen-off-vizag/story-EVRN3Ti9RvewyzJl1P6jjI.html|url-status=live|access-date=11 July 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170817080057/http://www.hindustantimes.com/india/in-pics-hudhud-takes-the-green-sheen-off-vizag/story-EVRN3Ti9RvewyzJl1P6jjI.html|archive-date=17 August 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://visakhapatnam.ap.gov.in/about-district/|title=About District {{!}} Visakhapatnam District, Government of Andhra Pradesh {{!}} India|access-date=16 April 2020}}</ref> It is the second largest city on the [[Coastal India|east coast]] of India after [[Chennai]], and the fourth largest in [[South India]]. It is one of the four [[Smart city|smart cities]] of Andhra Pradesh selected under the [[Smart Cities Mission]]<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/vijayawada/ap-smart-cities-to-be-ready-by-2021/articleshow/62286611.cms|title=AP: Andhra Pradesh smart cities to be ready by 2021 |department=Vijayawada News |website=The Times of India|date=29 December 2017 |access-date=17 April 2020}}</ref> and is the headquarters of [[Visakhapatnam district]].<ref name="city of destiny">{{cite book|last1=Academy|first1=Students'|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WfQGAgAAQBAJ&q=vizag+bay+of+bengal+visakhapatnam+district+headquarters&pg=PA4|title=Visakhapatnam-The City of Destiny-India|publisher=Lulu.com|isbn=978-1-257-06510-3|page=4|language=en|access-date=16 May 2017}}{{self-published source|date=February 2020}}</ref> Vizag is popularly knows as ''shipbuilding capital of India'' due to presence of multiple shipyard such as [[Hindustan Shipyard]], [[Naval Dockyard (Visakhapatnam)|Naval Dockyard]] and being the central naval command of the east coast. |
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Visakhapatnam's history dates back to the 6th century BCE.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Jesudasan |first=Dennis S. |date=2019-09-19 |title=Keezhadi excavations: Sangam era older than previously thought, finds study |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/keeladi-findings-traceable-to-6th-century-bce-report/article29461583.ece |access-date=2024-09-05 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The city was ruled by the [[Satavahana dynasty|Andhra Satavahanas]], [[Vengi]], the [[Pallava dynasty|Pallava]] and [[Eastern Ganga dynasty|Eastern Ganga]] dynasties.<ref name="history3">{{cite web|title=Visakhapatnam District|url=http://visakhapatnam.nic.in/|publisher=Visakhapatnam District|access-date=9 May 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150507060423/http://visakhapatnam.nic.in/|archive-date=7 May 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |date=16 June 2016 |title=Satavahana History |work=VMRDA |location=Visakhapatnam |url=http://vmrda.gov.in/thotlakonda.aspx |access-date=14 June 2016}}</ref> Visakhapatnam was an ancient port city which had trade relations with the [[Middle East]] and [[Roman Empire|Rome]].<ref>{{Cite web |last= |date=2023-01-31 |title=City of destiny Visakhapatnam, a new address of Andhra Pradesh Capital? |url=https://www.deccanherald.com/india/city-of-destiny-visakhapatnam-a-new-address-of-andhra-pradesh-capital-1186449.html |access-date=2024-09-05 |website=Deccan Herald |language=en}}</ref> Ships in Visakhapatnam were anchored at open roads and loaded with cargo transported from the shoreside using small [[masula boat]]s.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Our History |url=https://vizagport.com/Template/navigateTemplate/gnt/T3VyIEhpc3Rvcnk= |access-date=6 September 2024 |website=Visakhapatnam Port Authority}}</ref> A reference to a Vizagapatnam merchant is available in the inscriptions of [[Kumararama|Bheemeswara temple]] (1068 CE) in the [[East Godavari district|East Godavari District]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Onka |first=Sumit Kumar |date=2016-05-25 |title=Visakhapatnam was a land of traders, artists: Researcher Edward Paul |url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/in-other-news/250516/visakhapatnam-was-a-land-of-traders-artists-researcher-edward-paul.html |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=Deccan Chronicle |language=en}}</ref> During the 12th century CE, Vizagapatnam was a fortified mercantile town managed by a guild.<ref>{{cite web|title=Visakhapatnam Port Trust|url=https://vizagport.com/Template/navigateTemplate/gnt/T3VyIEhpc3Rvcnk=|publisher=Visakhapatnam Port Trust|access-date=2 March 2022}}</ref> European powers eventually established trade operations in the city, and by the end of the 18th century it had come under [[French India|French colonial rule]].<ref name="history1">{{cite web |title=Maps of India – Visakhapatnam History |url=http://www.mapsofindia.com/visakhapatnam/history.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100226134337/http://www.mapsofindia.com/visakhapatnam/history.html |archive-date=26 February 2010 |access-date=9 May 2015 |publisher=Maps of India}}</ref><ref name="history2">{{cite web |title=History of Visakhapatnam |url=http://www.iloveindia.com/travel/visakhapatnam/history-of-visakhapatnam.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150518071957/http://www.iloveindia.com/travel/visakhapatnam/history-of-visakhapatnam.html |archive-date=18 May 2015 |access-date=9 May 2015 |publisher=I Love India}}</ref> Control of the city passed to the [[East India Company]] in 1804 and it remained under [[British Raj|British colonial rule]] until [[Indian independence movement|Indian independence in 1947]].<ref name="history2" /> |
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==Overview== |
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[[File:Sunrise at Tenneti park in Visakhapatnam of Andhra Pradesh, India.jpg|thumb|right|[[Sunrise]] at Tenneti park in Visakhapatnam of [[Andhra Pradesh]], [[India]]]] |
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[[File:Visakhapatnam.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left| View of "Dolphin Nose" hill]] |
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[[File:Vizag Seaport aerial view.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|Aerial view of Visakhapatnam port]] |
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It is primarily an industrial city, apart from being a port city. It is also home to the Eastern Naval Command. Visakhapatnam has seen rapid development in the past decade{{Citation needed|date=July 2010}}. |
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The city is home to some reputed Central and State educational institutions of the state, including [[Andhra University]] (AU), [[Andhra Medical College]] (AMC), [[Indian Institute of Management Visakhapatnam|Indian Institute of Management]] (IIM), [[Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy]] (IIPE), [[Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University]] (DSNLU), [[Indian Maritime University#Visakhapatnam Campus|Indian Maritime University]] (IMU), and the [[National Institute of Oceanography, India|National Institute of Oceanography]] among others. Visakhapatnam serves as the headquarters for the [[Indian Navy|Indian Navy's]] [[Eastern Naval Command]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.joinindiannavy.gov.in/en/about-us/basic-organization.html|title=Basic Organization|website=Join Indian Navy|access-date= 28 May 2020}}</ref> The city also serves as the [[Zones and divisions of Indian Railways|zonal headquarters]] of [[South Coast Railway zone|South Coast Railway Zone]] (SCoR). The city is also home to the oldest [[shipyard]] and the only [[Harbor|natural harbour]] on the east coast of India.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Gopalakrishnan|first1=Hema|title=A career in Vizag|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-opportunities/a-career-in-vizag/article4072707.ece|access-date=18 May 2015|work=The Hindu|date=7 November 2012}}</ref> [[Visakhapatnam Port]] is the [[List of ports in India|fifth-busiest cargo port]] in India. The city is a major tourist destination and is known for its beaches, ancient [[Buddhism|Buddhist]] sites, and the natural environment of the surrounding [[Eastern Ghats]].<ref>{{cite book|last1=Ghosh|first1=G. K.|title=Bamboo: The Wonderful Grass|date=2008|publisher=APH Publishing|isbn=9788131303696|page=300|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FH4Bb7dD4qYC&q=Visakhapatnam+is+a+major+tourist+destination,+and+is+particularly+known+for+its+beaches.&pg=PA300|access-date=21 July 2017|language=en}}</ref> It is nicknamed as the "City of Destiny" and the "Jewel of the East Coast".<ref name="city of destiny" /> According to the [[Swachh Survekshan]] rankings of 2020, it is the ninth cleanest city in India among cities with a population of more than [[1 million]].<ref>{{Cite web|title=Swachh Survekshan 2020|url=http://www.swachhsurvekshan2020.org/ImpDocs/SS2020fullreport.pdf|publisher=Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210926015657/http://www.swachhsurvekshan2020.org/ImpDocs/SS2020fullreport.pdf|archive-date=26 September 2021}}</ref> In 2020, it was a finalist in the Living and Inclusion category of the World Smart City Awards.<ref>{{Cite web|date=19 November 2020|title=Vizag stands third at World Smart City Awards 2020|url=https://www.yovizag.com/vizag-stands-third-at-world-smart-city-awards-2020/|access-date=1 June 2021|website=Vizag|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{cite web | url=https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-politics/visakhapatnam-aps-capital-what-happens-to-amaravati-and-the-3-capitals-plan-8415874/ | title=Visakhapatnam will be Andhra's capital, says Jagan. What happens to Amaravati and the 3-capitals plan? | date=31 January 2023 }}</ref> |
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The Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA) will get a new master plan consequent to the increase in its purview from 170 km² to 550 km². The earlier master plan was approved by the government in 2006. VUDA’s jurisdiction has been expanded in mid-2008. |
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== Etymology == |
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The city sometimes goes by its now mostly defunct colonial British name, Waltair. During the colonial era, the city's hub was the Waltair railway station, and that part of the city is still called Waltair. It is sometimes referred to as the "'''City of Destiny'''".<ref>[http://www.hindu.com/mp/2006/01/14/stories/2006011401170100.htm Chronology of Visakhapatnam]. Hindu.com (2006-01-14). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> |
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The local belief behind the name of the city-states there was a king in the 4th century, who on his pilgrimage halted at Lawson's Bay and built a temple dedicated to [[Vishakha|Vaisakha]], which was submerged under the sea, but the name of the temple became attached to the settlement.<ref name="etymology" /> Other historical names are, ''Kulotungapatnam'', named by the Chola King [[Kulottunga I]]; ''Ishakapatnam'', based on a Muslim Saint, Syed Ali Madani (Ishak Madani).<ref name="etymology">{{cite news|last1=Hatangadi|first1=Hatangadi|title=Vizag's hidden history|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Vizags-hidden-history/articleshow/51075554.cms|access-date=16 May 2017|work=The Times of India|date=21 February 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170812220832/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Vizags-hidden-history/articleshow/51075554.cms|archive-date=12 August 2017|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="etymology2">{{cite book|last1=Raju|first1=Rapaka Satya|title=Urban Unorganised Sector in India|publisher=Mittal Publications|page=69|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=K7fDs9fV3TsC&q=visakhapatnam+shortened+vizag&pg=PA69|access-date=16 May 2017|language=en|year=1989}}</ref> During the [[Company rule in India|East India Company rule in India]], the city was known with the name, ''Vizagapatnam''.<ref name="sepoymutiny">{{cite news|title=First Sepoy Mutiny took place in Vizag|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/%E2%80%98First-Sepoy-Mutiny-took-place-in-Vizag%E2%80%99/article15425171.ece|access-date=16 May 2017|work=The Hindu|date=4 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161220143449/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/%E2%80%98First-Sepoy-Mutiny-took-place-in-Vizag%E2%80%99/article15425171.ece|archive-date=20 December 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> The suburb ''Waltair'' is another such name which was derived from the name the British colonial government used.<ref name="city of destiny" /> "Vizagapatnam" could also be spelled ''Visakhapatnam'' in the West European alphabet. The name was popularly shortened to ''Vizag'' and this form was in use right from the earliest days of British colonial rule in the district in the late eighteenth century.<ref name="Fathima">{{cite book|last1=Kapil|first1=Fathima Kutty|title=District Administration and Social Change in India: A Study of Vizagapatnam District, 1794-1898|date=2 October 1989|publisher=Stosius Inc - Advent Books Division|isbn=978-8170271444|edition=2nd}}</ref> It is still referred to as Vizag by locals too, however since [[Indian independence movement|independence]], people have reverted to calling it by its Indian name of Visakhapatnam.<ref name="etymology" /> |
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== History == |
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Visakhapatnam is home to several [[public ownership|state-owned]] heavy industries, one of the most advanced steel plants and has one of the country's largest ports and its oldest [[shipyard]]. It has the only natural harbour on the eastern coast of India. |
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{{Main|History of Visakhapatnam}} |
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Visakhapatnam's history stretches back to the 6th century BCE and the city finds mention in ancient texts such as the 4th century BCE writings of [[Pāṇini]] and [[Kātyāyana|Katyayana]]. Historically considered part of the [[Kalinga (historical region)|Kalinga]] region,<ref name="history1" /><ref name="history2" /> it was ruled by the [[Vengi]] kingdom and the [[Pallava dynasty|Pallava]] and [[Eastern Ganga dynasty|Eastern Ganga]] dynasties during medieval times.<ref name="history3" /> Archaeological records suggest that the present city was built around the 11th and 12th centuries C.E. by the [[Chola dynasty]] king [[Kulottunga I|Kulothunga I]]. Control over the city fluctuated between the [[Chola dynasty]] of [[Tamil Nadu]] and the [[Gajapati Empire|Gajapati Kingdom]] of [[Odisha]]<ref name="history1" /><ref name="history2" /> until its conquest by the [[Vijayanagara Empire]] in the 15th century.<ref name="history3" /> European powers eventually set up trading interests in the city and Visakhapatnam came under [[French India|French]] rule at the end of the 18th century.<ref name="history1" /><ref name="history2" /> |
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==Name and history== |
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[[Image:vizaghistory.jpg|thumbnail|left|3rd century BC Buddhist ruins of [[Thotlakonda]]]] |
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The city was ruled by the Andhra Kings of Vengi and Pallavas. The city is named after Sri Visakha Varma. Legend has it that [[Radha]] and [[Visakha|Viśakha]] were born on the same day and were equally beautiful. Sri Visakka Sakhi is the second most important [[gopi]] of the eight main gopis. She carries messages between Radha and Krishna and is the most expert Gopi messenger. Residents believe that an Andhra king built a temple to pay homage to his family deity Viśakha. This is now inundated under seawater near [[RK Beach|R K Beach]]. Another theory is that it is named after a woman disciple of Buddha named [[Visakha|Viśakha]]. Later it was ruled by [[Qutb Shahi dynasty|Qutb Shahis]] (1571–1674), [[Kingdom of Jeypore]] (1535–1571) and (1674–1711), [[Mughal Empire]] (1711–1724), [[Nizam of Hyderabad|Nizam]] (1724–1757) and France (1757–1765) before being captured by the British in 1765. European powers eventually established trading operations in the city and Visakhapatnam came under [[French India|French colonial rule]] at the end of the 18th century.<ref name="history1" /><ref name="history2" /> |
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Visakhapatnam was ruled by King Visakha Varma during BC's, according to Hindu Puranams. It was a part of the Kalinga Kingdom, under Ashoka's rule in 260 B.C. It passed on later to the Andhra Kings of Vengi and later to Pallavas. Another story of this place is it was named after Subrahmanyeswara, the deity of valour, the second son of Lord [[Shiva]]. The beauty of the place was often compared to the beauty of Sakhi Visakha. The legend is that [[Radha]] and [[Visakha]] were born on the same day and were equally beautiful. Locals believe that an Andhra king, impressed by the beauty, built a temple to pay obeisance to his family deity, Visakha. |
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The [[East India Company|British East India Company]] captured Visakhapatnam after the 1804 Battle of Vizagapatnam and it remained under [[British Raj|British colonial rule]] until [[Indian independence movement|Indian independence in 1947]] which was a part of the [[Northern Circars]]. |
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===The epic city=== |
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The city has been mentioned in the Indian epics ''[[Rāmāyana]]'' and ''[[Mahābhārata]]'', as well as the forests of the [[Eastern Ghats]] where the two brothers [[Rama]] and [[Lakshmana]] wandered in search of [[Sita]], wife of Lord Rama. According to the epics, Rama formed his army of monkey men in the region with the help of [[Hanuman]] and Jambavant. The monkey army of Rama later defeated the King Ravan to claim back his wife Sita. An episode of ''Mahābhārata'' when Bheema killed the demon [[Bakasura]], was believed to have happened in the village Karmanvati, just 40 km from the city. |
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[[File:Statue of lord buddha Thotlakonda AP India.jpg|thumb|Statue of lord [[buddha]] [[Thotlakonda]]]] |
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===Buddhist influence=== |
=== Buddhist influence === |
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The religious Hindu texts mention that the region of Visakhapatnam in the 5th century BC was part of the vast [[Kalinga (India)|Kalinga]] territory which extended up to the Godavari River. The relics found in the area also prove the existence of a Buddhist empire in the region. Kalinga later lost the territory to [[Ashoka the Great|King Ashoka]] in the bloodiest battle of the time which prompted him to embrace Buddhism. |
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Hindu texts state that during the fifth century BCE, the Visakhapatnam region was part of [[Kalinga (historical region)|Kalinga]] territory, which extended to the [[Godavari River|Godavari river]]. Relics found in the area also prove the existence of a [[Buddhist]] empire in the region. Kalinga later lost the territory to [[Ashoka|King Ashoka]] in the bloodiest battle of its time, which prompted Ashoka to embrace [[Buddhism]]. Ancient Buddhist sites, recently excavated, are scattered across Visakhapatnam, reflecting the region's Buddhist legacy.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2023-02-01 |title=Visakhapatnam declared as new capital of Andhra Pradesh |url=https://thearabianpost.com/visakhapatnam-declared-as-new-capital-of-andhra-pradesh/ |access-date=2024-09-06 |website=Arabian Post |language=en-US}}</ref> |
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===Sankaram=== |
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One of the most significant Buddhist sites in [[Andhra Pradesh]], Sankaram is located some 41 km away from Visakhapatnam. The name Sankaram derives from the term Sangharama. Sankaram is famous for the whole lot of votive stupas, rock-cut caves, brick-built structural edifices, early historic pottery and Satavahana coins that date back to the 1st century AD. The main stupa here was initially carved out of rock and then covered with bricks. In close proximity lies yet another significant Buddhist sites, [[Bojjannakonda]], where you can see a number of images of the Buddha carved on the rock face of the caves. At Ligalametta, there are hundreds of rock cut monolithic stupas in rows, spread all over the hill. Among other Buddhist attractions here are relic casket, three chiatya halls, votive platforms, stupas and Vajrayana sculptures. The Vihara was functional for around a millennium and saw the development of the not only [[Theravada]] form of [[Buddhism]] but also [[Mahayana]] and Vajrayana Buddhism. |
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[[File:Rock-cut Lord --Buddha-- Statue at Bojjanakonda near Anakapalle of Visakhapatnam dist in AP.jpg|thumb|Rock-cut Lord --Buddha-- Statue at Bojjanakonda near [[Anakapalle]] of Visakhapatnam dist in AP]] |
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==== Pavurallakonda ==== |
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[[File:Yaksha Sculpture Relief at Pavurallakonda Buddhist Remnant Site near Bheemunipatnam.jpg|thumb|Yaksha Relief at [[Pavurallakonda]] near [[Bheemunipatnam]]|alt=eramic sculptures of guardian Yakshas]] |
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The term Bavikonda in Telugu language means a hill of wells. As per its name, Bavikonda is a hill which has wells for the collection of rainwater. Bavikonda is located 15 km from the town of Visakhapatnam in [[Andhra Pradesh]], India and is an immensely significant Buddhist site. |
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[[Pavurallakonda]] ("pigeon hill") is a [[hillock]] west of Bhimli, about {{convert|24|km|abbr=on}} from Visakhapatnam. The Buddhist settlement found here is estimated to date back from the first century BCE to the second century CE. On the hillock (which overlooks the coastline) are 16 rock-cut [[cisterns]] for collecting rainwater. [[Gopalapatnam]], on the Tandava River, is a village surrounded by brick stupas, [[vihara]]s, pottery and other Buddhist artefacts.<ref>{{cite web |title=Pavuralakonda |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Crying-out-to-be-preserved/articleshow/17607287.cms| work= The Times of India|access-date= 12 December 2012}}</ref> |
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Excavation carried out in 1982–87 revealed an entire Buddhist establishment comprising a Mahachaitya, embedded with relic caskets, large vihara complex, numerous votive stupas, a stone pillared congregation hall, rectangular halls, a refectory etc. Artefacts discovered from the site include Roman and Satavahana coins and pottery dating back to the 3rd century BC to the 2nd century AD. A significant finding here is a piece of bone stored in an urn. This bone is widely supposed to be the mortal remains of the Buddha. In the urn, there is also a large quantity of ash. |
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The Bavikonda site, today, is counted amongst one of the oldest and immensely sacred Buddhist sites in the [[Asia]]. The ruins of the site stand reminder to the great Buddhist civilisation that once existed in the southern part of India. The site, in fact, also reminds a number of visitors of the [[Borobudur]] in [[Indonesia]]. |
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==== Sankaram ==== |
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[[File:Rock-cut Lord --Buddha-- Statue at Bojjanakonda near Anakapalle of Visakhapatnam dist in AP.jpg|thumb|left|Stone seated [[Buddharupa|Buddha]] at [[Bojjannakonda]] near [[Anakapalle]]]] |
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Around 16 km from Visakhapatnam is the [[Thotlakonda]], a [[Buddhist]] complex situated on the top of a hill. The site spreads over an area of {{convert|120|acre|km2}} and has been declared a protected monument by the government of [[Andhra Pradesh]]. Excavations carried out here have brought to surface three kinds of structural remains – religious, secular and civil. To be more precise the structures include a Mahastupa, 16 votive stupas, a stone pillared congregation hall, 11 rock-cut cisterns, well paved stone path ways, an apsidal chaitya-griha, 3 circular chaitgya-grihas, two votive platforms, 10 viharas, a kitchen complex with three halls and a refectory (dining hall). Apart from the structures, the Buddhist treasures excavated from here include nine [[Satavahana]] and five roman silver coins, [[terracotta]] tiles, stucco decorative pieces, sculptured panels, miniature [[stupa]] models in stone, Buddha padas depicted with asthamangal symbols, early [[historic]] pottery etc. |
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In 1907 British archaeologist Alexander Rea unearthed Sankaram, a 2,000-year-old Buddhist site. The name "Śankaram" derives from the [[Sangharama]] (temple or monastery). Located {{convert|40|km|abbr=on}} south of Visakhapatnam, it is known locally as [[Bojjannakonda]] and is a significant Buddhist site in Andhra Pradesh. The three major schools of Buddhism (Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana) flourished here. The complex is known for its monolithic [[stupa]]s, rock-cut caves and brick structures. The primary stupa was initially carved out of rock and covered with bricks. Excavations yielded historic pottery and [[Satavahana dynasty|Satavahana]] coins from the first century CE. At Lingalakonda, there are also rock-cut monolithic stupas in rows spread over the hill.<ref name=":2">{{Cite news |last=Gopal |first=B. Madhu |date=2023-09-30 |title=Andhra Pradesh’s Bojjannakonda gets major facelift to draw more tourists |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/andhra-pradesh-bojjannakonda-gets-major-facelift-to-draw-more-tourists/article67360608.ece |access-date=2024-09-06 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> The vihara, a monastery, was active for about 1,000 years.<ref name=":2" /> |
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Nearby is another Buddhist site, Bojjannakonda, with several images of the Buddha carved on the rock face of the caves. At Ligalametta there are hundreds of rock-cut monolithic stupas in rows, spread across the hill. Among other Buddhist attractions are a relic casket, three [[chaitya]] halls, votive platforms, stupas and [[Vajrayana]] sculptures.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Patnaik |first=Santosh |date=2020-01-12 |title=INTACH efforts to protect Buddhist site bear fruit |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/intach-efforts-to-protect-buddhist-site-bear-fruit/article30552294.ece |access-date=2024-09-06 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> |
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===Later history=== |
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<!-- Image with unknown copyright status removed: [[Image:vizagbeach.jpg|300px|thumbnail|Scenic beauty of Visakha beach]] -->The territory of Visakhapatnam then came under the Andhra rulers of [[Vengi]]. Then [[Chalukya dynasty|Chalukyas]], [[Pallava dynasty|Pallavas]] ruled over the placid land. This region was under Eastern Ganga Kings, Surya Vamsi Gajapati kings of Orissa from 10th century to 16th century AD. This region came under Hyderabad rulers in 16th century. The [[Chola Dynasty|Chola kings]] and Eastern Ganga Kings of Orissa built the temples in the city in 11–12 century AD as established by archeological findings. The [[Mughal Empire|Mughals]] ruled this area under the Hyderabad [[Nizam]] in the late 15th and early 16th century. European merchants from France, Holland and the [[East India Company]] used the natural port to export tobacco, paddy,coal,iron ore,ivory, muslin and other textile products. |
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==== Bavikonda ==== |
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Local legend states that an [[Coastal Andhra|Andhra]] king, while on his way to [[Varanasi|Benares]], rested there and was so enchanted with the sheer beauty of the place. He ordered a temple to be built in honor of his family deity, Visakha. Archaeological sources however reveal that the temple was possibly built between the 11th and 12th centuries by the Cholas. A shipping merchant, Sankarayya Chetty, built one of the mandapams (pillared halls) of the temple. Although it no longer exists (it may have been washed away about a hundred years ago by a cyclonic storm), elderly residents of Visakhapatnam talk of visits to the ancient shrine by their grandparents. Noted author Ganapatiraju Atchuta Rama Raju contradicted this.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.hinduonnet.com/thehindu/mp/2002/07/15/stories/2002071501150200.htm |title=Visakha traces its name to Buddhist princess|publisher=The Hindu |date=2002-07-15 |accessdate=2009-09-24}}</ref> |
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[[File:Bavikonda stupas.JPG|thumb|[[Bavikonda]] stupas|alt=Bavikonda Buddhist Complex]] |
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Bavikonda is an important Buddhist heritage site located on a hill about {{Convert|15|km|abbr=on}}, northeast of Visakhapatnam city. Here the Buddhist habitation is noticed on a 16 ha flat terraced area. The Hinayana school of Buddhism was practised at the monastery between the 3rd century B.C. and the 3rd century A.D. Bavikonda has remains of an entire Buddhist complex, comprising 26 structures belonging to three phases. A piece of bone stored in an urn recovered here is believed to belong to the mortal remains of the [[Gautama Buddha|Buddha]]. The word ''Bavikonda'' in [[Telugu language|Telugu]] means "a hill of wells". Fitting its name, Bavikonda is a hill with wells for the collection of rainwater. It is located {{convert|15|km|abbr=on}} from Visakhapatnam and is a significant Buddhist site. |
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In the 18th century, Visakhapatnam was part of the [[Northern Circars]], a region comprising [[Coastal Andhra]] and southern coastal Orissa that was initially under [[France|French]] control and later the [[United Kingdom|British]]. Visakhapatnam became a district in the |
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[[Madras Presidency]] of [[British India]]. In September 1804, British and French squadrons fought the naval [[Battle of Vizagapatam]] off the harbour. After India's independence it was the biggest district in the country and was subsequently divided into the three districts of [[Srikakulam]], [[Vizianagaram]] and Visakhapatnam. |
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Excavation carried out from 1982 to 1987 revealed a Buddhist establishment including a mahachaitya, also referred to as a grand stupa, embedded with relic caskets,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-05-24 |title=Top 20 Buddhist Stupas in India – Earth is Mysterious |url=https://www.earthismysterious.com/top-buddhist-stupas-in-india/ |access-date=2024-01-01 |language=en-US}}</ref> a large Vihara (monastery) complex, numerous votive stupas, a stone-pillared congregation and rectangular halls and a refectory. Artifacts recovered from the site include Roman and [[Satavahana dynasty|Satavahana]] coins and pottery dating from the third century BCE to the second century CE. A significant finding was a piece of bone (with a large quantity of ash) in an urn, which is believed to be the remains of the [[Buddha]]. The Bavikonda site is considered one of the oldest Buddhist sites in Asia. It is a reminder of the Buddhist civilisation which once existed in southern India, and also reminiscent of [[Borobudur]] in Indonesia.<ref>{{cite web|title=bavikonda|url=http://www.buddhist-tourism.com/countries/india/buddhist-sites/bavikonda-andhra-pradesh.html/|publisher=buddhist-tourism.com|access-date=7 September 2015|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151222172341/http://www.buddhist-tourism.com/countries/india/buddhist-sites/bavikonda-andhra-pradesh.html|archive-date=22 December 2015}}</ref> |
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The city has the tomb of the Muslim saint Syed Ali Ishak Madina, located atop the dargah-hill near the harbour in old city, which is dated to 18th century, where Hindus make vows at it as often as Muslims. The saint is considered to be all potent over the elements in the Bay of Bengal. Many old residents say that every vessel passing the harbour inwards or outwards used to salute the saint by hoisting and lowering its flag three times, and that many ship-owners offer chadar at the shrine after a successful voyage. It's been said that the name Visakhapatnam is named after him i.e. Syed Ali Ishak Madina, the saint. Initially it was Ishaqapatnam which has been modified into present Visakhapatnam may be because of mispronunciation of an Arabic word by the local people. |
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==== Thotlakonda ==== |
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[[File:Mahastupa in Thotlakonda, Visakhapatnam (2).jpg|thumbnail|right|Third-century BCE Buddhist ruins of [[Thotlakonda|Totlakonda]]|alt=Corner of light-coloured, angular stone ruins]] |
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[[Image:vizagcity.jpg|thumbnail|left|The city overlooking the Beach Road]] |
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[[File:Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex in Visakhapatnam in 2024, March 22.jpg|left|thumb|Thotlakonda Buddhist Complex]] |
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About {{convert|16|km|abbr=on}} from Visakhapatnam is [[Thotlakonda]], a [[Buddhist]] complex situated on top of a hill. The Buddhist complex on the Mangamaripeta hilltop, locally known as [[Thotlakonda|Totlakonda]], lies about {{Convert|16|km|abbr=on}} from Visakhapatnam on Visakhapatnam-Bheemili Beach Road. After its discovery (during an aerial survey), the Government of Andhra Pradesh declared the 48 ha site as a protected monument in 1978. Excavations from 1988 to 1992 exposed structural remains and artefacts, classified as Religious, Secular, and Civil. These structures include the Stupa, Chaityagrihas, pillared congregation halls, bhandagaras, refectory (bhojanasala), drainage, and stone pathways. The site covers an area of {{convert|120|acre|ha|abbr=off}}, and has been declared a protected area by the government of Andhra Pradesh. Excavations have revealed three kinds of structural remains: religious, secular, and civil. Structures include a mahastupa, sixteen votive [[stupa]]s, a stone-pillared congregation hall, eleven rock-cut cisterns, well-paved stone pathways, an [[Apse|apsidal]] [[chaitya]]-griha, three round chaitgya-grihas, two votive platforms, ten [[vihara]]s and a kitchen complex with three halls and a refectory (dining hall). Apart from the structures, Buddhist treasures excavated include nine [[Satavahana dynasty|Satavahana]] and five Roman silver coins, [[terracotta]] tiles, stucco decorative pieces, sculptured panels, miniature [[stupa]] models in stone, Buddha [[Pada (foot)|padas]] depicted with [[ashtamangala]] symbols (i.e. the eight auspicious symbols of Swastika, Shrivasta, Nandhyavarta, Vardhamanaka, Bhadrasana, Kalasha, Minyugala and Darpan) and early pottery.<ref>{{cite news |title=thotlakonda |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/thotlakonda-as-heritage-tourism-destination/article7329607.ece?ref=slideshow#im-image-3| newspaper= The Hindu|date = 18 June 2015|access-date= 18 June 2015}}</ref> |
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=== Later history === |
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[[File:Mor Sjanua Regimental Cemetery near Jagadamba junction, Vizag.jpg|thumb|Mor Sjanua Regimental Cemetery near Jagadamba junction]] |
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The territory of Visakhapatnam then came under the Andhra rulers of [[Vengi]], and [[Chalukya dynasty|Chalukyas]] and [[Pallava dynasty|Pallavas]] ruled the land. The region was ruled by the [[Eastern Ganga dynasty|Eastern Ganga king]] and the [[Gajapati Empire|Gajapati kings]] from the 10th century to the 16th century CE. Based on archaeological evidence, the [[Prabhakar]] and the Eastern Ganga Kings built temples in the city in the 11th and 12th centuries. In the late 16th century, it came under the direct rule of the [[Suryavanshi clan|Suryavanshi]] king, [[Vishwanath Dev Gajapati|Maharaja Vishwanath Dev Gajapati]] of [[Jeypore]]. However, from 1571 to 1674 it fell under the control and administration of the [[Qutb Shahi dynasty|Qutb Shahi]] kings of [[Golconda Fort|Golconda]] who appointed a governor or [[Faujdar]] to collect taxes in the region. This Faujdar governed the area from [[Srikakulam]] or Chicacole as it was then known. In 1674, the Maharaja of Jeypore, Vishwambhar Dev defeated the Foujdar and claimed sovereignty from the deteriorating Qutb Shahis.<ref name=":1">{{Cite web|last1=Senapati|first1=Neelmani|last2=Sahu|first2=Nabin Kumar|date=1966|title=Orissa District Gazetteers: Karaput|url=http://indianculture.gov.in/gazettes/orissa-district-gazetteers-karaput|access-date=25 April 2021|website=INDIAN CULTURE|publisher=Government of Odisha|page=73|language=en}}</ref> Vishwambhar is also said to have defeated the Dutch East India Company who allegedly abducted locals, mostly fishermen living by the sea-shore. Later his descendant, Maharaja Raghunath Krishna Dev defeated the Seer Lascer appointed by the Mughals and maintained his rule over the region. Therefore, Visakhapatnam remained a part of the [[Kingdom of Jeypore]] until the death of Maharaja Ram Chandra Dev I in 1711 after which it was taken over by the [[Nizam of Hyderabad]] who could only govern it for a few decades before transferring it to the British.<ref>{{Cite book|last=Singh Deo|first=Kumar Bidyadhar|title=Nandapur: A Forsaken Kingdom|publisher=Utkal Sahitya Press|year=1971|location=Cuttack|pages=69}}</ref> Even in the colonial era, the kings of Jeypore were referred to as the Maharaja or Raja of Vizagapatnam.<ref>{{Cite web|title=South Indian; India - Sword and scabbard (talwar)|url=https://www.rct.uk/collection/38131/sword-and-scabbard-talwar|access-date=25 April 2021|website=www.rct.uk|language=en}}</ref> European merchants from France, Holland and the [[East India Company]] used the natural port to export tobacco, [[Paddy (unmilled rice)|paddy]], coal, iron ore, ivory, [[muslin]] and other textile products. The British developed Visakhapatnam as a prominent harbour on the east coast. The old port in [[Jalari Peta]] was built and used by the Maharaja of Jeypore who also owned several ships. During the [[World War I|First World War]], [[Vikram Dev III|Maharaja Vikram Dev III]] sent his fleet of ships to aid the British and later donated the port to the British government of Madras.<ref name=":1" /> It is now a fish market. |
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Local legend tells that an [[Coastal Andhra|Andhra]] king, on his way to [[Varanasi|Benares]], rested at Visakhapatnam and was so enchanted by its beauty that he ordered a temple to be built in honour of his family deity, Viśakha. Archaeological sources, however, reveal that the temple was probably built between the 11th and 12th centuries by the Cholas. A shipping merchant, Sankarayya Chetty, built one of the mandapams (pillared halls) of the temple. Although it no longer exists (possibly washed away about 100 years ago by a cyclonic storm), elderly residents of Visakhapatnam remember visits to the ancient shrine by their grandparents (although author Ganapatiraju Atchuta Rama Raju denies this).<ref>{{Cite news |url=http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2002/07/15/stories/2002071501150200.htm |title=Viśakha traces its name to Buddhist princess |date=15 July 2002 |access-date=24 September 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20030913214905/http://www.thehindu.com/thehindu/mp/2002/07/15/stories/2002071501150200.htm |archive-date=13 September 2003 |work=[[The Hindu]] |url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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From a small fishing village in the 20th century, Visakhapatnam has grown into an mega-industrial hub. Its saga began when the British needed a suitable port that could serve move the rich mineral wealth from the central India. Unlike the western coast of India, the east coast is devoid of any natural harbours.To their surprise they located Visakhapatnam which was naturally protected from sea by Dolphin's nose hill and also the estuary of Meghadri river ending into sea formed a natural channel which was protected on south by Dolphin's nose which made it very natural and most suited for major port in those days. They started building the [[harbour]] in 1927; in 1933 it was opened to traffic. |
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[[File:VizagBeach5.jpg|thumbnail|right|A night view of Vizag beach]] |
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[[File:VizagBeach4.jpg|thumbnail|left|Fountainhead at Vizag beach]] |
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[[File:VizagBeach3.jpg|thumbnail|right|Statue of a standing man at Vizag Beach]] |
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[[File:VizagBeach2.jpg|thumbnail|left|Statue of a baby girl at Vizag Beach]] |
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[[File:VizagBeach1.jpg|thumbnail|right|Rajiv Gandhi Children's Park at Vizag Beach]] |
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During the 18th century Visakhapatnam was part of the [[Northern Circars]], a region comprising [[coastal Andhra]] and southern coastal Odisha which was first under French control and later British. Visakhapatnam became a district in the [[Madras Presidency]] of [[British Raj|British India]]. In September 1804, British and French squadrons fought the [[Battle of Vizagapatam]] near the harbour. After India's independence, it was the largest district in the country and was subsequently divided into the districts of [[Srikakulam]], [[Vizianagaram]] and Visakhapatnam. |
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One important milestone is the setting up of the Scindia Steam Navigation Co, later known as [[Hindustan Shipyard Limited]] in 1940. With the construction of the Kottavalasa-Kirandul (K.K. )line connecting the iron ore mines of Bailadila in M.P. (present day [[Chattisgarh]]), its importance grew. In the 1950s and 1960s the government and the private sector set up large scale basic industries like [http://www.bhpvl.com/ Bharat Heavy Plates & Vessels Ltd], [[Hindustan Zinc]] Ltd., [http://dredge-india.nic.in/ Dredging Corporation of India] Ltd., [[Caltex]] oil refinery (later acquired by government as H.P.C.L.), Coromandel fertilizers, and Andhra Polymers (now LG Polymers). The 1980s saw a major development with the development of the [[Visakhapatnam Steel Plant]] and other major industries. Economic liberalization in the 1990s brought a modest growth to the city but not as much as it did to Hyderabad. However, some industries sprang up like Rain Calcining Ltd., expansion of HPCL, setting up of Visakhapatnam Export Processing Zone, and the Simhadri Thermal Power plant of N.T.P.C. Visakhapatnam was declared one of ten fastest growing cities of the world in a recent study conducted by the [[United Nations]]. |
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[[Image:vb337.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|Ramakrishna Mission near RK Beach]] Due to the presence of the Eastern Naval Command, Steel Plant and H.P.C.L., the city has been the home to people from different parts of the country and due to this the city has a cosmopolitan nature. |
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[[Image:vb237.jpg|200px|thumbnail|right|The Gateway Hotel]] |
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Part of the city is known by its colonial British name, Waltair; during the colonial era, the city's hub was the Waltair railway station and a part of the city is still called Waltair. |
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The city's main commercial and shopping centres are in the Dwarakanagar,R.T.C. complex area and Jagadamba Junction area. It has two multiplexes, namely Varun Beach and CMR Central. Since 2000, the Dwarakanagar-R.T.C. complex area has transformed into a commercial hub with new shopping malls and complexes springing up within a radius of 2–3 kilometers. The city is home to many five-star hotels such as [[Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces|Taj group]], ITC-WelcomGroup, Four points by Sheraton and Park Hotels. |
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On 7 May 2020, the city suffered an industrial accident when a polymer plant leaked toxic [[styrene]] gas, as it restarted operations after the [[COVID-19 lockdown in India|Coronavirus lockdown]]. This [[Visakhapatnam gas leak|gas leak]] killed at least eleven people, and drew comparisons to the [[Bhopal disaster]].<ref>{{Cite news|last1=Gettleman|first1=Jeffrey|last2=Raj|first2=Suhasini|last3=Schultz|first3=Kai|last4=Yasir|first4=Sameer|date=7 May 2020|title=Gas Leak in India at LG Factory Kills 11 and Sickens Hundreds|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/07/world/asia/india-lg-gas.html|access-date=7 May 2020|issn=0362-4331}}</ref> |
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Various large and small [[software]] and [[Business Process Outsourcing|BPO]] companies have announced plans for starting development and outsourcing centers in Visakhapatnam, which has also contributed to the rise in real estate prices. Inflows from [[Non-resident Indian and Person of Indian Origin|Non-resident Indians]] (NRIs) from Visakhapatnam have further added to this rise. |
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[[File:St Aloysius Anglo Indian High School (SAS) established in 1847 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.jpg|thumb|right|220px|St Aloysius Anglo Indian High School (SAS) was established in the year 1847 in Visakhapatnam, [[Andhra Pradesh]].]] |
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== Geography == |
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The city also owes its economic growth to the availability of an educated English-speaking workforce. English is the first language in many places of higher education in the city. This availability of a highly educated workforce allowed the entry of many ITES companies such as HSBC[[HSBC]], thus providing the roots for the growth of the ITES industry in the city. The city registered over 100% growth in the IT sector over the last year, contributing millions of dollars to the economy. The city has 102 small and medium software and BPO units, of which about 10 units started their operations during the year 2005–07. Software exports from the Visakhapatnam in 2007 were worth Rs. 245 crores – an increase of over 100% over the previous year. |
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[[File:Boats in Kondakarla ava 2.jpg|thumb|[[Kondakarla Ava]], a bird sanctuary near Visakhapatnam]] |
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The city is situated between the [[Eastern Ghats]] and the [[Bay of Bengal]].<ref name="location" /> The city coordinates lies between 17.7041 N and 83.2977 E.<ref name="geo" /><ref name="climate" /> The city's area is 682 km<sup>2</sup>. The average elevation is 45 metres.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.britannica.com/place/Visakhapatnam|title=introduction|publisher=britannica|location=US|accessdate=24 October 2016}}</ref> Visakhpatnam is situated in [[Coastal Andhra]] Region.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.andhrauniversity.edu.in/college/college-of-science-and-technology/science-departments/geography.html|title=situated place |publisher=andhrauniversity|location=India|accessdate=21 May 2013}}</ref> |
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The city is surrounded by the [[Simhachalam Hill Range]] to the west, the [[Yarada Hills]] to the southeast, and [[Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary]] to the northwest. The hills play an important role in Visakhapatnam's ecological environment and cover over 621.52 km<sup>2</sup>.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/unauthorised-hill-slope-occupation-an-environmental-hazard/articleshow/51500146.cms|title=unauthorised hill slope occupation an environmental hazard |newspaper=times of india|date=21 March 2016 |location=India|accessdate=21 March 2016}}</ref> |
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Various national and international IT and banking giants have set up or will be setting up offices in the city. These include [[Mahindra Satyam]], [[Wipro]], iSOFT, [[HSBC]] Sankhya Technologies, iFlex, Sutherland Global Services, Kenexa, E Centric Solutions Pvt Ltd, and OpenWindow Technologies Inc.The Andhra Pradesh government provided infrastructure and land for these companies to set up their development centers in the city outskirts via Special economic zones to improve employment and increase the economic growth. |
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===Hills in Visakhapatnam=== |
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Many City-based SME's such as Gaian Solutions, Acclaris, Manuh Solutions, NuNet Technologies, Patra Corp, Prospecta Technologies, Quant Systems, Sankhya Technologies, Samudra Software, Symbiosys Technologies, Xinthe Technologies, etc., have been providing IT and ITES services. Many of these companies have formed an association called Vizag Information Technology Association (VITA) to help promote IT in Visakhapatnam as well as bridge the Industry-Institution gap. To help companies in and around Visakhapatnam build their human capital, companies like IndiGenius, Mafoi among others have been providing Human Resource (HR) consulting services such as recruitment, temporary staffing and training. |
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* [[Eastern Ghats]] |
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* [[Simhachalam Hill Range|Simhachalam Hills]] |
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* [[Yarada Hills]] |
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* [[Erra Matti Dibbalu]] |
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* [[Dolphin's Nose|Dolphin's Nose Hills]] |
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* [[Kailasagiri|Kailasagiri Hills]] |
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=== Climate === |
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[[Indira Gandhi Zoological Park]] was set up in 1972 on the coastal hills north of the city. The zoo park features some of the rarest species in India. |
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[[File:Klimadiagramm-deutsch-Visakhapatnam-Indien.png|center|500px|The average temperature of visakhapatnam]] |
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Visakhapatnam has a [[tropical savanna climate|tropical wet and dry climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification|Köppen]] ''Aw'').<ref name="climate" /> The annual mean temperatures range between {{Convert|24.7|–|30.6|C|F|0|abbr=on}}, with the maximum in May and the minimum in January; the minimum temperatures ranges between {{Convert|17|–|27|C|F|0|abbr=on}}. The highest maximum temperature ever recorded was {{convert|42.0|C|F}} in 1978, and the lowest was {{convert|10.5|C|0}} on 6 January 1962.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/vizag-shivers-at-20-degree-c/article25776759.ece |
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|title=Least temperature recorded in Vizag|date=19 December 2018|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=21 February 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://en.climate-data.org/asia/india/andhra-pradesh/visakhapatnam-2804/|title= climate of the city |publisher=climate data|location=India|accessdate=16 July 2020}}</ref> It receives rainfall from the [[Southwest monsoon|South-west]] and [[North-east monsoon]]s<ref name="climate" /> and the average annual rainfall recorded is {{Convert|1118.8|mm|abbr=on}}.<ref name= IMD> |
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{{cite web |url= http://www.imd.gov.in/section/climate/extreme/visakhapatnam2.htm |title= Visakhapatnam Climatological Table Period: 1951–1980 |publisher = [[India Meteorological Department]] |access-date = 25 March 2015 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150402091431/http://www.imd.gov.in/section/climate/extreme/visakhapatnam2.htm |archive-date = 2 April 2015 |url-status = live}}</ref> In October 2014 [[Cyclone Hudhud]] made landfall near Visakhapatnam.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/news/world-asia-india-29581787|title=Cyclone Hudhud pounds eastern India|date=12 October 2014|access-date=24 December 2019}}</ref> |
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{{Weather box |
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==Strategic importance== |
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| location = [[Visakhapatnam Airport]] (1991–2020, extremes 1901–present) |
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<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:vizagstrategic.jpg|thumbnail|left|The carrier [[INS Viraat]] during the President's Fleet Review held in 2006. It was the first time a fleet review was held outside Bombay.]] --> |
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| metric first = Yes |
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| single line = Yes |
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Many battles have been fought in the city during such conflicts as [[World War II]], the [[Indo-Pakistani War of 1971]] and the [[Bangladesh Liberation War]]. It was only the second region in South Asia to be attacked by [[Empire of Japan|Japanese]] fighter planes during World War II. Recognising the strategic importance of the city and the role it played during the [[Bangladesh Liberation War]], Pakistan allegedly sent its submarine, [[PNS Ghazi]] to destroy India's only aircraft carrier. The submarine sank off the coast (Pakistan claims, accidentally hitting one of the mines it laid; India claims, from a depth-charge dropped by the destroyer INS ''Rajput''). The remnants of the submarine are on display on the beach road and it has become a major tourist attraction. |
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| Jan record high C = 34.8 |
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| Feb record high C = 38.4 |
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[[Image:vb166.jpg|200px|thumbnail|Victory at Sea 1971 commemorating victory over Pakistan]] |
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| Mar record high C = 41.0 |
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| Apr record high C = 40.6 |
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The city was so important during times of war that the [[Indian government]] decided to set up the Eastern Naval Command, overlooking the more populous [[Chennai]] and [[Kolkata]], and developed Visakhapatnam during that period. The establishment of the E.N.C. soon after the construction of the ship building yard firmly secured Visakhapatnam's place in the annals of the Indian Navy. Some of the defence related establishments are N.S.T.L. (Naval Science and Technology Laboratories), which is responsible for the development and testing of warship technology, equipment and weapons and Bharat Dynamics Ltd is coming up for manufacturing heavy and light weight torpedoes. The navy also has a naval dockyard [started in 1949] in the city where recently India's first Nuclear Submarine was launched. The navy has plans to set up submarine base in the city at the alternate ENC base in Rambilli near Visakhapatnam. |
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| May record high C = 45.0 |
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| Jun record high C = 45.4 |
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[[Image:Vizag submarine museum.jpg|thumbnail|left|The famous submarine museum near "Victory At Sea", Visakhapatnam]] |
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| Jul record high C = 41.4 |
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The Navy is also constructing a second base as the current base is overpopulated and not sufficient to meet the needs of the E.N.C. Despite its importance, the Naval establishment has become a hindrance for the development of Visakhapatnam. The harbour is not open to the general public for reasons of security, while in Mumbai and Kochi, the entire port along with Naval docks are opened for boating and tourism. |
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| Aug record high C = 38.8 |
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| Sep record high C = 38.2 |
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Visakhapatnam is surrounded on three sides by the overlapping mountain ranges, and the southeastern city is safeguarded by the [[Bay of Bengal]]. Visakhapatnam is far away from any international border, both land and sea, making it the choice for strategic placement of the headquarters of the eastern naval command. |
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| Oct record high C = 37.2 |
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| Nov record high C = 35.0 |
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==Demographics== |
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| Dec record high C = 34.0 |
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Visakhapatnam is a cosmopolitan mix of people from various parts of the country. From a population of a few thousand locals during the 18th century and early 19th century the population grew steadily every decade. The city doubled its population from 1990–2000 owing to a large migrant population from surrounding areas and other parts of the country coming to the city to work in its heavy industries. |
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| year record high C = 45.4 |
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{{bar box |
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| Jan high C = 29.7 |
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|title=Religion in Visakhapatnam |
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| Feb high C = 31.9 |
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|titlebar=#Fcd116 |
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| Mar high C = 34.6 |
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|left1=Religion |
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| Apr high C = 35.7 |
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|right1=Percent |
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| May high C = 36.7 |
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|float=right |
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| Jun high C = 35.4 |
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|bars= |
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| Jul high C = 33.6 |
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{{bar percent|[[Hinduism]]|orange|93}} |
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| Aug high C = 33.2 |
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{{bar percent|Others|#808080|7}} |
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| Sep high C = 33.2 |
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| Oct high C = 32.6 |
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| Nov high C = 31.1 |
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| Dec high C = 29.9 |
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| year high C = 33.1 |
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| Jan mean C = 24.5 |
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| Feb mean C = 25.8 |
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| Mar mean C = 28.0 |
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| Apr mean C = 29.4 |
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| May mean C = 30.7 |
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| Jun mean C = 30.2 |
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| Jul mean C = 29.0 |
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| Aug mean C = 29.0 |
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| Sep mean C = 28.9 |
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| Oct mean C = 28.5 |
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| Nov mean C = 27.0 |
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| Dec mean C = 25.1 |
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| year mean C = |
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| Jan low C = 18.3 |
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| Feb low C = 20.4 |
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| Mar low C = 23.7 |
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| Apr low C = 26.3 |
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| May low C = 28.0 |
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| Jun low C = 27.8 |
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| Jul low C = 26.8 |
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| Aug low C = 26.5 |
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| Sep low C = 26.1 |
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| Oct low C = 25.1 |
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| Nov low C = 22.0 |
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| Dec low C = 18.7 |
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| year low C = 24.1 |
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| Jan record low C = 10.5 |
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| Feb record low C = 12.8 |
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| Mar record low C = 14.4 |
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| Apr record low C = 18.3 |
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| May record low C = 20.0 |
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| Jun record low C = 21.1 |
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| Jul record low C = 21.3 |
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| Aug record low C = 21.1 |
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| Sep record low C = 17.5 |
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| Oct record low C = 17.6 |
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| Nov record low C = 12.9 |
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| Dec record low C = 11.3 |
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| year record low C = 10.5 |
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| rain colour = green |
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| Jan rain mm = 8.3 |
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| Feb rain mm = 9.5 |
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| Mar rain mm = 6.6 |
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| Apr rain mm = 24.7 |
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| May rain mm = 67.3 |
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| Jun rain mm = 131.1 |
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| Jul rain mm = 121.6 |
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| Aug rain mm = 148.6 |
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| Sep rain mm = 207.9 |
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| Oct rain mm = 232.2 |
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| Nov rain mm = 87.5 |
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| Dec rain mm = 9.3 |
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| year rain mm = 1054.5 |
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| Jan rain days = 0.8 |
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| Feb rain days = 0.9 |
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| Mar rain days = 0.6 |
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| Apr rain days = 1.5 |
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| May rain days = 3.4 |
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| Jun rain days = 6.5 |
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| Jul rain days = 8.0 |
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| Aug rain days = 8.3 |
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| Sep rain days = 10.6 |
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| Oct rain days = 8.4 |
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| Nov rain days = 3.0 |
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| Dec rain days = 0.7 |
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| year rain days = 52.6 |
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| time day = 17:30 [[Indian Standard Time|IST]] |
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| Jan humidity = 64 |
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| Feb humidity = 61 |
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| Mar humidity = 62 |
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| Apr humidity = 66 |
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| May humidity = 66 |
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| Jun humidity = 68 |
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| Jul humidity = 71 |
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| Aug humidity = 73 |
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| Sep humidity = 76 |
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| Oct humidity = 73 |
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| Nov humidity = 67 |
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| Dec humidity = 62 |
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| year humidity = 67 |
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| Jan sun = 272.8 |
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| Feb sun = 271.2 |
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| Mar sun = 272.8 |
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| Apr sun = 264.0 |
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| May sun = 251.1 |
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| Jun sun = 135.0 |
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| Jul sun = 130.2 |
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| Aug sun = 133.3 |
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| Sep sun = 168.0 |
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| Oct sun = 229.4 |
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| Nov sun = 228.0 |
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| Dec sun = 269.7 |
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| year sun = |
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| Jand sun = 8.8 |
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| Febd sun = 9.6 |
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| Mard sun = 8.8 |
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| Aprd sun = 8.8 |
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| Mayd sun = 8.1 |
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| Jund sun = 4.5 |
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| Juld sun = 4.2 |
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| Augd sun = 4.3 |
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| Sepd sun = 5.6 |
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| Octd sun = 7.4 |
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| Novd sun = 7.6 |
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| Decd sun = 8.7 |
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| yeard sun = 7.2 |
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| source 1 = [[India Meteorological Department]] (sun 1971–2000)<ref name=IMDnormals> |
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{{cite web |
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| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200205040301/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf |
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| archive-date = 5 February 2020 |
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| url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/1981-2010%20CLIM%20NORMALS%20%28STATWISE%29.pdf |
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| title = Climatological Normals 1981–2010 |
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| publisher = India Meteorological Department |
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| date = January 2015 |
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| pages = 794–798 |
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| access-date = 17 February 2020}}</ref><ref name=IMDextremes> |
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{{cite web |
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| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200205042509/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/EXTREMES%20OF%20TEMPERATURE%20and%20RAINFALL%20upto%202012.pdf |
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| archive-date = 5 February 2020 |
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| url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/EXTREMES%20OF%20TEMPERATURE%20and%20RAINFALL%20upto%202012.pdf |
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| title = Extremes of Temperature & Rainfall for Indian Stations (Up to 2012) |
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| publisher = India Meteorological Department |
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| date = December 2016 |
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| page = M20 |
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| access-date = 17 February 2020}}</ref><ref name=IMDsun> |
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{{cite web |
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| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200205042602/http://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Daily%20Normals%20of%20Global%20&%20Diffused%20Radiations%20%201971_2000.pdf |
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| archive-date = 5 February 2020 |
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| url = https://imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Daily%20Normals%20of%20Global%20&%20Diffused%20Radiations%20%201971_2000.pdf |
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| title = Table 3 Monthly mean duration of Sun Shine (hours) at different locations in India |
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| work = Daily Normals of Global & Diffuse Radiation (1971–2000) |
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| publisher = India Meteorological Department |
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| date = December 2016 |
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| page = M-3 |
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| access-date = 10 February 2020}}</ref><ref name=IMDcityrainfall> |
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{{cite web |url=https://cdsp.imdpune.gov.in/extremes_1991_2020/?stn=42867 |title=Nagpur(42867) |publisher=India Meteorological Department |access-date = 9 August 2022}}</ref><ref name=IMDcityextremes2> |
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{{cite web |
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| url = https://www.imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Climatological%20Tables%201991-2020.pdf |
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| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20230101061732/https://www.imdpune.gov.in/library/public/Climatological%20Tables%201991-2020.pdf |
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| archive-date = 1 January 2023 |
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| title = Climatological Tables 1991-2020 |
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| publisher = India Meteorological Department |
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| access-date = 1 January 2023 |
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| page = 21}}</ref> |
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| source 2 = Tokyo Climate Center (mean temperatures 1991–2020)<ref name=TCC> |
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{{cite web |
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| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20200229203516/https://ds.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/tcc/tcc/products/climate/normal/parts/NrmMonth_e.php?stn=43149 |
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| archive-date = 29 February 2020 |
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| url = https://ds.data.jma.go.jp/gmd/tcc/tcc/products/climate/normal/parts/NrmMonth_e.php?stn=43149 |
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| title = Normals Data: Visakhapatnam - India Latitude: 17.72°N Longitude: 83.30°E Height: 3 (m) |
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| publisher = Japan Meteorological Agency |
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| access-date = 29 February 2020}}</ref> Weather Atlas<ref name="Weather Atlas"> |
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{{cite web |
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| url = https://www.weather-atlas.com/en/india/visakhapatnam-climate |
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| title = Climate and monthly weather forecast Visakhapatnam, India |
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| publisher = Weather Atlas |
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| access-date = 16 June 2022 |
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}}</ref> |
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| date = August 2010 |
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| source = |
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| Jan uv = 9 |
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| Feb uv = 11 |
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| Mar uv = 12 |
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| Apr uv = 12 |
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| May uv = 12 |
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| Jun uv = 12 |
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| Jul uv = 12 |
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| Aug uv = 12 |
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| Sep uv = 12 |
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| Oct uv = 10 |
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| Nov uv = 9 |
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| Dec uv = 8 |
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}} |
}} |
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According to the 2001 India [[census]],<ref name="census">[http://web.archive.org/web/20070607194126/http://www.censusindia.net/results/data/apd_uatowns.PDF Census March 1, 2009 (via archive.org)]. (2007-06-07). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> Visakhapatnam had a population of 2,569,608 and that of urban area 3,329,472.<ref name="census"/> After the state government approved the formation of Greater Visakhapatnam with the merger of Gajuwaka municipality and 32 villages in the vicinity in the Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, the population of the city and the metro area swelled present population may be between 2.6 to 3.8 million.{{Citation needed|reason=please give a reliable source for the merger and this population figure|date=July 2009}} Males constitute 50% of the population and females 50%. The city has an average literacy rate of 70%, higher than the national average of 59.5%. Male literacy is 74% and female literacy is 64 %. 10% of the population is younger than six. Visakhapatnam is listed as one of the 100 Fastest Growing Cities of the World.<ref>{{cite web|author=Shekharjyoti Kalita|url=http://www.merinews.com/catFull.jsp?articleID=127198 |title=Eleven Indian cities among 100 fastest growing cities in the world|publisher=Merinews.com |date= |accessdate=2009-09-24}}</ref> |
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[[Hinduism]] is practised by the majority of citizens, followed by [[Islam]] and [[Christianity]]. The city patronised [[Buddhism]] for 2 millennia as evident from the presence of many Buddhist [[sangharama]]s in the outskirts. The Buddhist population has however waned since. All the religions co-exist peacefully |
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==Language== |
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{{Unreferenced section|date=January 2010}} |
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Visakhapatnam is predominantly Telugu speaking. The Telugu spoken by the middle classes is a standard dialect, while a significant population who have settled down in the city from the adjoining villages and neighbouring districts of [[East Godavari]], [[Vizianagaram]] and [[Srikakulam]] speak [[Uttarandhra]] (North Coastal) Mandalikam dialects. |
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Historians{{Who|date=February 2010}} believe that centuries ago, when [[Uttarandhra]] was part of the Kalinga Empire, Buddhist missionaries and merchants might have taken Telugu (derived from Brahmi script) script to [[Southeast Asia]] from the shores of [[Uttarandhra]] where it parented into the scripts of [[Mon language|Mon]], [[Burmese language|Burmese]], [[Thai language|Thai]], [[Khmer script|Khmer]], [[Javanese language|Javanese]] and [[Balinese language|Balinese]] languages and even [[Sinhala language|Sinhala]] of [[Sri Lanka]].{{Citation needed|date=February 2010}} Their similarities to Telugu script can be discerned even today. |
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Visakhapatnam is home to small Sikh, Gujarathis, [[Oriya people|Oriya]], [[Bengali people|Bengali]], [[Nepali people|Nepali]] and [[Malayalee]] communities; their migration is recent due to the naval presence and high concentration of public sector industries. |
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==Climate== |
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[[Image:Vishkhapatnam 2010 Monsoon.jpg|250px|thumb|left|A [[NASA]] Satellite Image Showing Visakhapatnam Experiencing Monsoon in 2010]] |
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Visakhapatnam experiences a [[tropical savanna climate]] ([[Köppen climate classification]] ''Aw'') with little variation in temperature through the year. May is the hottest month with average temperatures around 32 °C (90 °F), while January is the coolest month with average temperatures near 23 °C (73 °F). |
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As the city is located on the Bay of Bengal, the humidity remains high throughout the year. The total annual rainfall is around 945 mm (38 inches), the bulk of which is received during the south-west monsoon. October is the wettest month with around 204 mm (8 inches) of rainfall. |
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The months from November to February are the best times to visit the city, with moderate temperatures. |
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{{Weather box |
{{Weather box |
||
|location = Visakhapatnam |
| location = Visakhapatnam ([[Dolphin's Nose]]) 1981–2010, extremes 1970–2005) |
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|metric first |
| metric first= Yes |
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|single line = Yes |
| single line = Yes |
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| |
| collapsed = Yes |
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| |
| Jan record high C = 30.7 |
||
| |
| Feb record high C = 35.0 |
||
| |
| Mar record high C = 36.2 |
||
| |
| Apr record high C = 36.1 |
||
| |
| May record high C = 42.8 |
||
| |
| Jun record high C = 39.8 |
||
| |
| Jul record high C = 39.8 |
||
| |
| Aug record high C = 36.2 |
||
| |
| Sep record high C = 36.6 |
||
| |
| Oct record high C = 34.5 |
||
| |
| Nov record high C = 32.4 |
||
| |
| Dec record high C = 31.4 |
||
| |
| year record high C = 42.8 |
||
| |
| Jan high C = 27.2 |
||
| |
| Feb high C = 26.9 |
||
| |
| Mar high C = 30.6 |
||
| |
| Apr high C = 31.5 |
||
| |
| May high C = 32.6 |
||
| |
| Jun high C = 32.2 |
||
| |
| Jul high C = 30.6 |
||
| |
| Aug high C = 30.5 |
||
| |
| Sep high C = 30.6 |
||
| |
| Oct high C = 30.2 |
||
| |
| Nov high C = 28.8 |
||
| |
| Dec high C = 27.4 |
||
| |
| year high C = 30.1 |
||
| |
| Jan low C = 19.8 |
||
| |
| Feb low C = 21.4 |
||
| |
| Mar low C = 23.5 |
||
| |
| Apr low C = 25.0 |
||
| |
| May low C = 26.1 |
||
| |
| Jun low C = 26.0 |
||
| |
| Jul low C = 25.0 |
||
| |
| Aug low C = 24.8 |
||
| |
| Sep low C = 24.8 |
||
| |
| Oct low C = 23.8 |
||
| |
| Nov low C = 21.8 |
||
| |
| Dec low C = 19.8 |
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| year low C = 23.5 |
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|source 1 = <ref name="imd">{{cite web |
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| Jan record low C = 15.6 |
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| url = http://www.imd.gov.in/section/climate/visakhapatnam2.htm | title = Visakhapatnam | accessdate = 2010-03-26 |
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| Feb record low C = 17.7 |
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| publisher = [[India Meteorological Department]]| language = |date=May 2011}}</ref> |
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| Mar record low C = 17.4 |
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|date = August 2010}} |
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| Apr record low C = 17.9 |
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| May record low C = 18.5 |
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| Jun record low C = 18.4 |
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| Jul record low C = 18.4 |
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| Aug record low C = 19.6 |
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| Sep record low C = 18.8 |
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| Oct record low C = 19.4 |
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| Nov record low C = 16.3 |
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| Dec record low C = 14.1 |
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| year record low C = 14.1 |
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| rain colour = green |
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| Jan rain mm = 14.3 |
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| Feb rain mm = 28.9 |
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| Mar rain mm = 14.6 |
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| Apr rain mm = 25.0 |
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| May rain mm = 66.0 |
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| Jun rain mm = 107.5 |
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| Jul rain mm = 131.8 |
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| Aug rain mm = 132.6 |
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| Sep rain mm = 161.6 |
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| Oct rain mm = 270.4 |
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| Nov rain mm = 105.1 |
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| Dec rain mm = 3.5 |
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| year rain mm = 1061.2 |
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| Jan rain days = 1.0 |
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| Feb rain days = 1.1 |
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| Mar rain days = 0.4 |
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| Apr rain days = 1.4 |
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| May rain days = 3.4 |
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| Jun rain days = 5.4 |
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| Jul rain days = 7.8 |
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| Aug rain days = 7.4 |
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| Sep rain days = 8.5 |
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| Oct rain days = 8.3 |
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| Nov rain days = 4.0 |
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| Dec rain days = 0.7 |
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| year rain days = 49.3 |
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|time day = 8:30 [[Indian Standard Time|IST]] |
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| Jan humidity = 78 |
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| Feb humidity = 76 |
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| Mar humidity = 75 |
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| Apr humidity = 78 |
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| May humidity = 77 |
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| Jun humidity = 79 |
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| Jul humidity = 83 |
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| Aug humidity = 83 |
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| Sep humidity = 82 |
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| Oct humidity = 79 |
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| Nov humidity = 73 |
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| Dec humidity = 72 |
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|year humidity = 76 |
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|source 1 = [[India Meteorological Department]]<ref name=IMDnormals/><ref name=IMDextremes/> |
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}}Vishakhapatnam has been ranked 22nd best “National Clean Air City” (under Category 1 >10L Population cities) in India.<ref>{{Cite web |date=7 September 2024 |title=Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024 |url=https://prana.cpcb.gov.in/ncapServices/robust/fetchFilesFromDrive/Swachh_Vayu_Survekshan_2024_Result.pdf |website=Swachh Vayu Sarvekshan 2024}}</ref> |
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== |
== Demographics == |
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=== Air === |
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[[Image:VisakhapatnamAirportBySashi.jpg|thumb|250px|Visakhapatnam Airport]] |
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The [[Visakhapatnam Airport]] is the busiest Airport in [[Coastal Andhra]]. |
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Visakhapatnam is connected well with daily flights from [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]], [[Chennai]], [[Delhi]], [[Mumbai]], [[Bengaluru]], [[Vijayawada]], [[Tirumala - Tirupati|Tirupati]], [[Kolkata]], [[Pune]], [[Kochi]], [[Raipur]] and [[Indore]]. [[Visakhapatnam Airport]] has recently received permission to operate night flights and now the airport is working up to 22:00. A new 10,000 foot [3 km] long runway became operational to accommodate international flights and larger aircraft. The airport was one of the few chosen by the center for modernization including facilities such as aerobridges and immigration booths. The new terminal was inaugurated on 21 March 2009. |
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{{As of|2011}} [[census of India]], Visakhapatnam had a population of 1,728,128, of which males were 873,599 and females were 854,529 – a [[Human sex ratio|sex ratio]] of 978 females per 1000 males. The population density was {{convert|18480|/sqkm|/sqmi|abbr=on}}. There were 164,129 children in the age group of 0–6 years, with 84,298 boys and 79,831 girls – a sex ratio was 947 girls per 1000 boys. The average [[Literacy in India|literacy rate]] stood at 81.79% with a total of 1,279,137 literates, of which 688,678 were males and 590,459 were females.<ref name=census>{{cite web|title=District Census Handbook – Visakhapatnam|url=http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/2813_PART_B_DCHB_VISAKHAPATNAM.pdf|website=Census of India|access-date=21 December 2015|pages=26–27, 52|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151119150115/http://www.censusindia.gov.in/2011census/dchb/2813_PART_B_DCHB_VISAKHAPATNAM.pdf|archive-date=19 November 2015|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name=population>{{cite news|last1=G|first1=Siva|title=Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation polls unlikely this year|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Greater-Visakhapatnam-Municipal-Corporation-polls-unlikely-this-year/articleshow/40865385.cms|access-date=26 August 2015|work=[[The Times of India]]|date=25 August 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140902175736/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Greater-Visakhapatnam-Municipal-Corporation-polls-unlikely-this-year/articleshow/40865385.cms|archive-date=2 September 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> It is ranked 122 in the list of fastest-growing cities in the world.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.citymayors.com/statistics/urban_growth1.html |title=World's fastest growing urban areas (1) |publisher=City Mayors |access-date=6 May 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101125090345/http://citymayors.com/statistics/urban_growth1.html |archive-date=25 November 2010 |url-status=live}}</ref> The total slum population covers 44.61% of the total population which implies 770,971 people reside in slums.<ref name="census-2011">{{cite news|url=http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/402-visakhapatnam.html|title=Visakhapatnam City Census 2011 data|access-date=18 March 2017|publisher=Census 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170625193141/http://www.census2011.co.in/census/city/402-visakhapatnam.html|archive-date=25 June 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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===Road=== |
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[[Image:Vizag seaport.jpg|200px|thumb|left|Visakhapatnam seaport; harbour interchange fly-by road can be seen here]] |
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The recent estimates of city's population are 2,358,412 in 2022.<ref>{{Cite news |title=Recent estimates of visakhapatnam |url=https://www.macrotrends.net/cities/21436/visakhapatnam/population}}</ref> |
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Visakhapatnam is one of the major cities on the east coast of India connected by [[National Highway 5 (India)|NH5]], a major barrier national highway and a part of the [[Golden Quadrilateral]] system of Indian highways connecting [[Chennai]] and [[Kolkata]]. The section of Golden Quadraleteral(NH5) from Kolkata to Chennai connects Visakhapatnam to the North-East and to the South. The highway is an important route for transporting cargo and people from these cities to and from Visakhapatnam.Visakhapatnam is the seventh largest city in India with metro eligibility since 2007.Visakhapatnam has a good network of roads. There are frequent buses to [[Kakinada]], [[Vizianagaram]], [[Srikakulam]], [[Araku]], [[Guntur]] and [[Rajahmundry]]. There are even bus services to [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]], [[Vijayawada]], [[Guntur]], [[Tirumala - Tirupati|Tirupati]], [[Bengaluru]], [[Chennai]], [[Kolkata]] and few other parts of [[Orissa]] and [[Karnataka]]. |
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=== Language and religion === |
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Residents of Visakhapatnam make use of extensive public transport provided by the [[APSRTC]], which runs metro buses across various routes across the city and its suburbs. The APSRTC complex at Asilametta is the hub for most of these buses causing major traffic jams during rush hours on the heavily populated, congested Asilametta Junction. The city corporation is planning to dig subways, construct pedestrian overpasses and flyovers to address the traffic woes. |
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{{Pie chart |
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|caption = Languages of Visakhapatnam (2011)<ref name="language"/> |
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|label1 = [[Telugu language|Telugu]] |value1 = 92.13 |color1 = steelblue |
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|label2 = [[Urdu]] |value2 = 2.77 |color2 = green |
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|label3 = [[Hindi]] |value3 = 2.19 |color3 = orange |
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|label4 = [[Odia language|Odia]] |value4 = 0.92 |color4 = saddlebrown |
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|label5 = Others |value5 = 1.99 |color5 = grey |
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}} |
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[[Telugu people|Telugu]] is the official and the most predominantly spoken language by native speakers.<ref>{{cite news|title=Need to protect Telugu language stressed|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/need-to-protect-telugu-language-stressed/article17345514.ece|access-date=18 May 2017|work=The Hindu}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|title=Telugu Tirunallu draws to a close|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Telugu-Tirunallu-draws-to-a-close/article16914887.ece|access-date=18 May 2017|work=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221133830/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Telugu-Tirunallu-draws-to-a-close/article16914887.ece|archive-date=21 December 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> Two dialects of [[Telugu language|Telugu]] are spoken by the people, the common dialect and the [[Uttarandhra]] (North Eastern Andhra) dialect. The latter is mainly spoken by the people who originally belong to the districts of [[Vizianagaram]] and [[Srikakulam]].<ref name="Visakhapatnam language">{{cite web|title=Visakhapatnam language|url=http://www.mapsofindia.com/visakhapatnam/language.html|website=Maps of India|access-date=28 August 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150722002022/http://www.mapsofindia.com/visakhapatnam/language.html|archive-date=22 July 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> A cosmopolitan population of Visakhapatnam comprises Tamils,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/celebration-time-for-tamilians/article5908409.ece/articleshow/19300060.cms |title=Celebration time for Tamilians|work=The Hindu|date=13 April 2014 |access-date=13 April 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author= Rani Devalla|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/blend-of-tradition-and-creativity/article7787126.ece |title=Blend of tradition and creativity|work=The Hindu|date=21 October 2015 |access-date=21 October 2015}}</ref> Malayalis,<ref>{{cite news|author=Rani Devalla|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/malayalis-feel-at-home-in-vizag/article5140356.ece|title=Malayalis feel at home in Vizag|work=The Hindu|date=18 September 2013|access-date=18 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927110858/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/malayalis-feel-at-home-in-vizag/article5140356.ece|archive-date=27 September 2013|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author= B.Madhugopal|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/malayalees-seek-direct-daily-train-to-mangalore/article7960594.ece |title=Malayalees seek direct daily train to Mangalore|work=The Hindu|date=8 December 2015 |access-date=8 December 2015}}</ref> Sindhis,<ref>{{cite news|last1=Rani Devalla|title=Sindhis make merry|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/sindhis-make-merry/article6580788.ece|access-date=7 May 2016|agency=[[The Hindu]]|date=10 November 2014}}</ref> Kannadigas,<ref>{{cite news|author=Sulogna Mehta|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Kannadigas-make-a-mark-by-displaying-their-rich-tradition/articleshow/19300060.cms|title=Kannadigas make a mark by displaying their rich tradition|work=The Times of India|date=31 March 2013 |access-date=31 March 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180529062453/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Kannadigas-make-a-mark-by-displaying-their-rich-tradition/articleshow/19300060.cms|archive-date=29 May 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|author=Rani Devalla|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/kannadigas-in-celebration-mode/article6605466.ece|title=Kannadigas in celebration mode|work=The Times of India|date=17 November 2014|access-date=17 November 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141127165331/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/kannadigas-in-celebration-mode/article6605466.ece|archive-date=27 November 2014|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Odias]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/get-set-to-savour-odia-delicacies/article7051860.ece |title=Get set to savour Odia delicacies |work=The Hindu|date=31 March 2015 |access-date=12 March 2017}}</ref> Bengalis and Bihari migrants from other regions of India.<ref>{{cite news|author=Sulogna Mehta|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Cosmo-Vizag-celebrates-Shivaratri/articleshow/31123165.cms|title=Cosmo Vizag celebrates Shivaratri|work=The Times of India|date=28 February 2014 |access-date=28 February 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180117134416/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Cosmo-Vizag-celebrates-Shivaratri/articleshow/31123165.cms|archive-date=17 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=1500 cultural associations of Vizag|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/a-cultural-hub/article3664083.ece/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200506190654/https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-features/tp-metroplus/a-cultural-hub/article3664083.ece|url-status=dead|archive-date=6 May 2020|work=The Hindu|access-date=21 July 2012}}</ref> There is also an Anglo-Indian community, regarded as the first cosmopolitans of the city.<ref name="angloindian">{{cite news|title=Anglo Indians: Vizag's first cosmopolitans - Times of India|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Anglo-Indians-Vizags-first-cosmopolitans/articleshow/47808442.cms|access-date=18 May 2017|work=The Times of India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180529075539/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Anglo-Indians-Vizags-first-cosmopolitans/articleshow/47808442.cms|archive-date=29 May 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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A Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) was approved for the city under the [[JNNURM]].<ref name="BRTS">{{cite web|author=Pib.nic.in|title=Press Information Bureau:Ministry of Urban Development urges Public to prefer Public Transport To Private|url=http://pib.nic.in/release/release.asp?relid=55125}}</ref> This will make use of dedicated lanes for buses allowing for an efficient and high speed mode of transport for the public and significantly reduce traffic congestion, improving safety. This project is under construction and will be completed by the end of 2015 |
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According to the 2011 census, Telugu is the most spoken language in the city, with 92.13% speakers, followed by [[Urdu]] (2.77%), [[Hindi]] (2.19%), [[Odia language|Odia]] (0.92%).<ref name="language">{{cite web |title=Table C-16 Population By Mother Tongue (Town level): Andhra Pradesh |url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/10254/download/13366/DDW-C16-TOWN-STMT-MDDS-2800.XLSX |website=[[Census of India]] |publisher=[[Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India]]}}</ref> |
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===Rail=== |
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{{main|Visakhapatnam Junction}} |
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[[Image:Vizag railway station overview.jpg|thumb|200px|right|Visakhapatnam Railway station]] |
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The railway station at Visakhapatnam is under the control of [[East Coast Railway]] of [[Indian Railways]]. It stands on the [[Chennai Central]] -[[Howrah Station]] route, though the mainline bypasses the [[Central Station]]. Consequently a suburban halt on the mainline near [[Visakhapatnam Steel Plant]], at [[Duvvada]], is being developed into a major satellite station to improve services for the city. |
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There are direct rail links to [[Machilipatnam]], [[Vijayawada Junction]], [[Secunderabad Railway Station]], [[Tirupati (city)|Tirupati]], [[Bhubaneswar]], [[Nagpur]], [[Bangalore]] [[Bhopal Junction]], [[Mumbai]], [[Surat]], [[Porbandar]], [[Okha, India|Okha]], [[Mangalore]], [[Tiruchchirapalli]], [[Puri]], [[Raipur]], [[Bilaspur, Chhattisgarh|Bilaspur]], [[Korba, Chhattisgarh|Korba]], [[Nasik]], [[Amritsar]], [[Patna]], [[Ernakulam]], [[Trivandrum]], [[Kanniyakumari]], [[Shirdi]], [[Aurangabad district, Maharashtra|Aurangabad]], [[Varanasi]], [[Lucknow]], [[Kanpur]], [[Allahabad]], [[Gaya, India|Gaya]], [[Ranchi]], [[Jamshedpur]], [[Dhanbad]], [[Jammu Tawi]], [[Bhilai]], [[Gwalior]], [[Chennai Central]], [[Howrah Station]], [[New Delhi Railway Station]] etc., and also has direct services to [[Indore]], [[Ujjain]], [[Coimbatore]] and [[Jaipur]] amongst other major cities. |
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|title=Religion in Visakhapatnam (2011)<ref name="Religion">{{cite web |title=C-01 Population By Religious Community: Andhra Pradesh|url=https://censusindia.gov.in/nada/index.php/catalog/11363/download/14476/DDW28C-01%20MDDS.XLS|publisher=[[Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India]]}}</ref> |
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{{bar percent|[[Hinduism]]|darkorange|92.32}} |
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{{bar percent|[[Andhra Muslims|Islam]]|green|3.85}} |
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{{bar percent|[[Telugu Christians|Christianity]]|dodgerblue|3.07}} |
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{{bar percent|Other or not stated|black|0.76}} |
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}} |
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[[Hinduism]] is practised by the majority of its citizens, followed by Islam and Christianity. The area practised [[Buddhism]] in the ancient past, as evidenced by the many Buddhist [[sangharama]]s in the outlying areas but the population of Buddhists has waned, with approximately 0.03% population in the entire city based on the recent census.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.census2011.co.in/data/religion/district/130-visakhapatnam.html |title=Visakhapatnam Religion Census 2011 |publisher=Census2011.co.in |access-date=12 March 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161101102152/http://www.census2011.co.in/data/religion/district/130-visakhapatnam.html |archive-date=1 November 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> |
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===Sea=== |
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[[Image:vizagPort.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|Visakhapatnam Port.]] |
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Situated on the east coast of India, Visakhapatnam serves as the gateway for waterways for the state of [[Andhra Pradesh]]. Visakhapatnam has one of the country's largest ports and its oldest shipyard on the eastern coast of India. It is a land-locked harbour<ref>Santosh Patnaik [http://www.hindu.com/2010/03/08/stories/2010030859800600.htm Beach nourishment taken up on a bigger scale]. Hindu.com (2010-03-08). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> as it is connected to the sea by a channel cut through solid rock and sand. The Visakhapatnam port is one of the busiest ports in [[India]].[http://www.vizagseaport.com Vizag Seaport Pvt Ltd.], own two berths in the inner harbour of VPT, EQ-8 is fully mechanized and at EQ-9 berth vessels are handled by conventinal means, both berths are capable to handle panamax vessels. The shipbuilding yard situated at Visakhapatnam is the largest in India. Situated on [[Chennai]] – [[Kolkota]]corridor, the city is also a hub of on-ground traffic. The [[Gangavaram Port|Gangavaram Sea Port]] is India's deepest sea port. In December 2010, [[Coal India]] agreed a deal that would allow an additional berth to be built at the port.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fairplay.co.uk/login.aspx?reason=denied_empty&script_name=/secure/display.aspx&path_info=/secure/display.aspx&articlename=dn0020101217000006|accessdate=2010-12-18|publisher=fairplay.co.uk |title=Coal India strikes port deal|date=2010-12-18}}</ref> |
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== Administration == |
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===Education=== |
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{{Main|Administration of Visakhapatnam}} |
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Visakhapatnam is considered a centre for education in Andhra Pradesh. There are several primary, high school and college institutions in the city. Apart from state-run schools for the poor, there are many private institutions, missionary schools and colleges. |
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[[File:Collectorate_Building,_Visakhapatnam,_AP_06.jpg|thumb|Collectorate Building, Visakhapatnam]] |
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[[Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation]] (GVMC) is the civic body that oversees the civic needs of the city.<ref>{{cite news|title=Vizag civic body to study erosion; big plan to nourish beach|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/travel/150716/vizag-civic-body-to-study-erosion-big-plan-to-nourish-beach.html|access-date=18 May 2017|work=Deccan Chronicle|date=15 July 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170821011958/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/lifestyle/travel/150716/vizag-civic-body-to-study-erosion-big-plan-to-nourish-beach.html|archive-date=21 August 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> One of the earliest municipalities in this area, the Vizag (Visakhapatnam) Municipality was set up in 1858 to fulfill the basic infrastructural needs of the people. It was converted into a municipal corporation in 1979. Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation came into existence on 21 November 2005 after the release of G.O by Govt of Andhra Pradesh.<ref name="gvmc">{{cite web|title=About Vizag Corporation|url=https://www.gvmc.gov.in/wss/Index.htm|website=Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation|access-date=18 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170512070511/http://gvmc.gov.in/gvmc/index.php/layout/introduction|archive-date=12 May 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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It has a jurisdictional area of {{Convert|681.96|sqkm|sqmi|abbr=on}}, which includes the merged municipalities of Gajuwaka, [[Anakapalle]] and [[Bheemunipatnam]].<ref name="civicbody">{{cite web |title=Municipalities, Municipal Corporations & UDAs |url=http://www.dtcp.ap.gov.in/webdtcp/pdf/List%20of%20ULBs.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160808132411/http://www.dtcp.ap.gov.in/webdtcp/pdf/List%20of%20ULBs.pdf |archive-date=8 August 2016 |access-date=29 January 2016 |website=Directorate of Town and Country Planning |publisher=Government of Andhra Pradesh}}</ref><ref name="thehinducivic">{{cite news|title=GOs issued on merger of two civic bodies, 10 panchayats|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/gos-issued-on-merger-of-two-civic-bodies-10-panchayats/article4972926.ece|access-date=15 February 2016|work=The Hindu|date=31 July 2013|location=Visakhapatnam|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131111063519/http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/gos-issued-on-merger-of-two-civic-bodies-10-panchayats/article4972926.ece|archive-date=11 November 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> Although as per the 2011 census, it is {{cvt|513.61|km2}} mentioned in the district town amenities handbook of Andhra Pradesh, portraying a rise in area covered by the municipal corporation in these years<ref>{{Cite web|title=GVMC Website|url=https://www.gvmc.gov.in/wss/static_content/Introduction.jsp}}</ref> |
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The IMU has been established as a Central University by the Government of India under an Act of Parliament, namely, the Indian Maritime University Act 2008. The Indian Maritime University, established through an Act of Parliament on 14/11/2008 as Central University, is poised to play a key role in the development of required human resource for the maritime sector. The Indian Maritime University, being the first of its kind in the country will cater to the educational requirement of the maritime fraternity. It is a teaching and affiliating University which will offer degree, post graduate degree and research programmes in all disciplines of maritime sector. The city also has National Institute of Oceanography. |
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The municipal corporation of Vishakapatnam is governed by three acts. First is the State Municipal Act, the Andhra Pradesh Municipalities Act 1965, the Andhra Pradesh Municipal Corporations 1994 Act, as well as an act specific to the Vishakapatnam Municipal Corporation Act 1979.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Andhra Pradesh Municipal Corporations Act, 1994|url=http://www.bareactslive.com/AP/ap399.htm|access-date=22 October 2020|website=www.bareactslive.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|title=Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation Act 1979|url=http://www.bareactslive.com/AP/ap621.htm#:~:text=An%20act%20to%20provide%20for,1.&text=-%20(1)%20This%20Act%20may,Visakhapatnam%20Municipal%20Corporation%20Act,%201979.|access-date=22 October 2020|website=www.bareactslive.com}}</ref> |
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<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:AU-COE.jpg|thumbnail|left|Andhra university, college of engineering.]] --> |
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Established in 1878, A.V.N. College is one of the city's oldest educational institutions.<ref name="Home Page of Mrs. A.V.N.College">{{cite web|url=http://www.avncollege.ac.in/index.htm |title=Home Page of Mrs. A.V.N.College |publisher=Avncollege.ac.in |date= |accessdate=2009-09-24}}</ref> Famous freedom fighter Alluri Seeta Rama Raju studied in A.V.N College. |
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The city is divided into 9 zones, In a recent agglomeration of five Bheemili villages with a population of 19,000 into the GVMC jurisdiction the number of wards has increased to 98.<ref>{{Cite web|title=GVMC|url=https://visakhapatnam.cdma.ap.gov.in/en/key-contacts}}</ref> |
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Visakhapatnam is the home of [[Andhra University]] (AU) which was established in 1926. [[Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan]], before he became the [[President of India]], worked as the [[Vice Chancellor]] of the University between 1931 and 1936. AU and its affiliated colleges provide education to thousands of students from the state. Post-graduate and graduate courses are offered in various branches like arts, commerce, science & technology, engineering, IT, business management, law and pharmacy. The AU college of pharmacy is the second oldest pharmacology institute in India. The university is in the process of obtaining [[IIEST]]status and there is also a proposal for setting up an [[Indian Institute of Management|IIM]] at Visakhapatnam. |
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=== Municipal elections and civic government officials === |
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The [[Andhra Medical College]], established in 1902, is the home of various teaching hospitals. The [[Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management|GITAM]] and the [[GVP College of Engineering]] are other prominent technical education institutions in the city. |
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The previous Municipal Elections were held in 2007. After a larger gap of 13 years, the elections were scheduled to happen on 23 March 2020.<ref name="The Economic Times">{{Cite news|title=Andhra Pradesh municipal polls: TDP wins big in Seemandhra, Congress bags most seats in Telangana|work=The Economic Times|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/politics-and-nation/andhra-pradesh-municipal-polls-tdp-wins-big-in-seemandhra-congress-bags-most-seats-in-telangana/articleshow/35035737.cms|access-date=22 October 2020}}</ref> The results of the latest municipal elections for 145 municipalities and 10 municipal corporations across Andhra Pradesh were held on 30 March and the results were announced on Monday. Of the 92 municipalities in Seemandhra, TDP won 65 municipalities and YSR Congress nineteen. Of the seven municipal corporations, TDP bagged five and YSR Congress two.<ref name="The Economic Times"/> |
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The City governance structure of GVMC consists of an elected wing headed by the Mayor an administrative wing headed by the Administrative Commissioner, 4 Additional commissioners, and 8 zonal commissioners. Mayor elections were planned to be carried out in March 2020 but details are yet to be declared.<ref name="The Economic Times"/> The present municipal commissioner of the city is G Srijana. The municipal commissioner looks after the administration of the municipal corporation.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Municipal Commissioner|url=https://www.gvmc.gov.in/wss/thirdlevel.htm}}</ref> |
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Some of the other engineering colleges in the city: [[Chaitanya Engineering College]], [[Raghu Engineering College]], Vignan's Institute of Information Technology, Sanketika Vidya Parishad college of engineering, Pothinamallayapalem, Pydah College of Engineering and Technology, Vignans Institute of Engineering for Women, Al Ameer College of Engineering & Technology, Avanthi Institute of Engineering & Technology, Anil Neerukonda Institute of Technology & Sciences and VITAM College of Engineering. Graduation Degree Colleges: VIPS, Pydah, Gayatri, AVN, DR.V.S.Krishna, etc. |
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<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:GITAMU-CL.jpg|thumbnail|right|[[GITAM University]], Sir Sarvepalli Radhakrishna central library]] --> |
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The executive wing has departments for Engineering, Public health, revenue, town planning, horticulture, education, finance, general administration, projects, IT E-governance and Urban Community Development.<ref>{{Cite web|title=GVMC functions|url=https://www.gvmc.gov.in/wss/#.htm}}</ref> |
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Schools: St. Aloysius Anglo Indian High School is the oldest school in the district and one of the oldest schools in the country. It was established in 1847 and is in the old town region, also, St. Joseph's Girls' High School was established in 1893 in Waltair R.S centre of Visakhapatnam and affiliated to [[Indian Certificate of Secondary Education|ICSE]]. Kotak Salesian School, D.A.V Cent. Public School, [[Delhi Public School, Visakhapatnam|Delhi Public School]], S.F.S. School, St. Anthony's high school, Bethany School, [[Visakha Valley School]], [[Timpany School]] are the best schools in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Other schools include Public School at MVP Colony, [[Pollocks School]], St. Joseph's sec school, [[Kendriya Vidyalaya]], Sri Krishna Vidya Mandir, [[Sri Sathya Sai Vidya Vihar]], Siva Sivani, Saraswathi Vidya Vihar, [[Little Angels]], Little Flowers, Visvodaya High School and Pavani School. The city has around 10 [[List of Kendriya Vidyalayas|Kendriya Vidyalaya]]'s with total student strength of 18000. Timpany School has three branches —one affiliated to [[Indian Certificate of Secondary Education|ICSE]] and the other two to [[CBSE]]. Vikas Vidyaniketan is the largest CBSE +2 residential school affiliated to CBSE. Vijnana Vihara(Gudilova),Visakha Valley School and Sri Krishna Vidya Mandir are affiliated to [[CBSE]].De Paul School affiliated to SSC and ICSE. |
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Municipal Corporation also running the schools in Telugu medium, which offers education at free of cost to the poor. Kurupam Durga Prasad Municipal Corporation High School Est.,in 1954, Zilla Parishad High School are to name a few. |
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The organisational structure of the GVMC includes standing committees, ward committees and special committees, The corporation wards committees must be of not less than ten wards, special committees are appointed by the corporation out of their own body, and a standing committee consisting of chairpersons from all wards.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Key Committees|url=https://www.gvmc.gov.in/wss/static_content/Elected%20Wing.jsp}}</ref> |
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The International Science Congress (I.S.C.) was hosted by Andhra University in 1976 and again in 2008. It is the largest congregation of scientists from different disciplines in the world. Over 8,000 people participated in the I.S.C. in 2008, including prominent [[List of Nobel laureates|Nobel Prize winners]] from around the world. |
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=== Municipal budget === |
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==Economy== |
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The GVMC estimated a budget of {{INRConvert|4171|c|lk=on|year=2020}} for the financial year 2020–21. It shows an increase of {{INRConvert|337|c|year=2019}} compared to the last budget for 2019–20.<ref>{{Cite news|date=23 May 2020|title=GVMC's budget for 2020-21 fiscal pegged at Rs 4,171 crore|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/gvmcs-budget-for-2020-21-fiscal-pegged-at-rs-4171-crore/articleshow/75903876.cms|url-status=live|access-date=31 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201028185734/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/gvmcs-budget-for-2020-21-fiscal-pegged-at-rs-4171-crore/articleshow/75903876.cms|archive-date=28 October 2020}}</ref> The Revenue Department of GVMC generates its revenue by levying of Property Tax, Vacant Land Tax and it is the collection and dealing with Remunerative Enterprises, Water Charges, etc.<ref>{{Cite web|title=GVMC Budget|url=https://www.gvmc.gov.in/wss/thirdlevel.htm}}</ref> |
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[[Image:Fishermen.JPG|200px|thumb|right|Fishermen in Visakhapatnam.]] |
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=== Masterplan === |
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[[Image:vb508.jpg|200px|thumbnail|Megadri River Channel that connects Outer Harour of Visakhapatnam Port with Inner Harbour]] |
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[[File:Beach road night view.jpg|thumb|Beach road along the Kailasagiri hill illuminated with Automobile trails at night]] |
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In 2019, the Planning wing of the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) started preparing a 'perspective plan 2051' which is a 30-year strategic plan, apart from another 'master plan 2041'. The 'perspective plan' is expected to include provisions for resource conservation, regional growth, economic growth and transportation strategies, coastal zone regulations, disaster management strategies, population forecast and distribution, a broad structure plan, and an implementation plan.<ref name=":0" /> |
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The 'master plan' proposes a growth strategy with transit-oriented development strategies, expansion of satellite towns such as Vizianagaram, Anakapalli, Bheemili, etc., theme-based economic nodes along the proposed metro-rail corridor, bus-based public transport, tourism destination development, a comprehensive rural agenda and resilient city planning.<ref name=":0">{{Cite news|date=27 November 2019|title=Masterplan-2051: Urban body starts work on 30-yr road map|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/masterplan-2051-urban-body-starts-work-on-30-yr-road-map/articleshow/72248206.cms|url-status=live|access-date=31 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108003322/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/masterplan-2051-urban-body-starts-work-on-30-yr-road-map/articleshow/72248206.cms|archive-date=8 November 2020}}</ref> |
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[[File:INS Karmuk P64 at Visakhapatnam.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|Naval warship]] |
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Yet another proposal includes a transit corridor connecting Bhogapuram Airport with the existing business centres of the city and the industrial clusters in Atchutapuram under the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor.<ref name=":0" /> |
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===Visakhapatnam City economy=== |
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From being a tiny hamlet of local fishing communities during the early days of the [[Indian Independence Struggle]] and for a few decades later, the city exploded economically, in fact the rise has been so dramatic that the city was identified as one of the fastest growing cities in the world economically and demographically.<ref>David Satterthwaite (2007) [http://pubs.iied.org/pdfs/10550IIED.pdf The transition to a predominantly urban world and its underpinnings]. Human Settlements Discussion Paper Series. Theme: Urban Change −4</ref><ref>[http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2007-10-23/india/27980533_1_cities-list-urban-centres-urban-areas 11 Indian cities among world's fastest growing]. Times Of India. (2007-10-23). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> Various factors contributed to the city's growth economically, including the natural harbor, its location between Madras and Calcutta, access to the NH5 (a major National Expressway) and the developed network of railways which metamorphosed the village into a burgeoning industrial city.<ref>[http://www.visakha.in/about-vizag.asp About vizag, visakha.in provides info about vizag, vizag history]. Visakha.in (2006-03-31). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> |
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[[File:Visakhapatnam Outer Harbour.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|Visakhapatnam Outer Harbour]] |
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The city has developed into a hub for many heavy industries. The Visakhapatnam Port, the largest in the country, was the ideal gateway contributing to the development of petroleum, steel and fertilizer industries. The [[Visakhapatnam Steel Plant]] (recently expanded from 3.1 to 6.3 MT) and the Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd. were the two multi-billion dollar investments which put Visakhapatnam on the world's industrial map. The city also has two N.T.P.C. power plants to satisfy the huge power needs of the industries. Visakhapatnam also houses the headquarters of the Dredging corporation of India. |
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=== District Administration === |
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It is hub for [[iron ore]] and other [[mineral]] exports of India, where iron ore from [[Andhra Pradesh]], [[Orissa]], [[Chattisgarh]], [[Jharkhand]], [[Madhya Pradesh]] is transported to the Visakhapatnam port by means of both [[Rail transport]] & [[Road transport]] and from here minerals are exported using ships to [[China]] and other countries. Visakhapatnam district and its surroundings have Bauxite reserves of 1,000 MT, manganese ore and titanium reserves in the beach sand.{{citation needed|date=December 2010}} |
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The district area is {{cvt|11161|km2}}. The Sub-Division is divided into Mandals. Visakhapatnam District Consists of 43 mandals, each headed by a Tahsildar.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Mandals {{!}} Visakhapatnam District, Government of Andhra Pradesh {{!}} India|url=https://visakhapatnam.ap.gov.in/mandals/|access-date=29 October 2020|language=en-US}}</ref> It also has one Municipal Corporation and two Municipalities. There are four revenue divisions in the district.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Visakhapatnam District, Government of Andhra Pradesh {{!}} The City of Destiny... {{!}} India|url=https://visakhapatnam.ap.gov.in/|access-date=29 October 2020|language=en-US}}</ref> A Revenue division is headed by Revenue Divisional Officer in the rank of Sub–Collector in the cadre of [[Indian Administrative Service|I.A.S.]] or a Deputy Collector. He is the Sub Divisional Magistrate having jurisdiction over his division.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Revenue Division {{!}} Visakhapatnam District, Government of Andhra Pradesh {{!}} India|url=https://visakhapatnam.ap.gov.in/revenue-division/|access-date=29 October 2020|language=en-US}}</ref> |
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=== Law and order === |
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The city also owes its economic growth to the availability of an educated [[English language|English]]-speaking workforce. English is the first language in many places of higher education in the city. This availability of a highly educated workforce allowed the entry of many ITES companies such as HSBC, IBM Daksh, Sutherland and Acclaris. The city registered over 100% growth in the I.T. sector over the last year, contributing millions of dollars to the economy. The city has 102 small and medium software and call centre units, of which about 10 units started their operations during the year 2005–07. Software exports from the Visakhapatnam in 2007 were worth Rs. 245 crores and 502 crores in 2008, 1000 crores in 2011 – an increase of nearly 90% every year. Various national and international IT and banking giants have set up or will be setting up offices in the city. Some IT companies started already are Mahindra Satyam, Kenexa, Infotech, Softsol, and Miracle Software. Wipro has finished construction of its campus and is about to start operations.Recently IBM has started a new branch office in Vizag as on 2011. IBM already has a BPO IBM-Daksh in Vizag since 2007. The Andhra Pradesh government provided infrastructure and land for these companies to set up their development centers in the city outskirts. The Andhra Pradesh govt has also started an IT SEZ in Rushikonda hills at Visakhapatnam. IT industry is growing and it is believed that the pace of growth would increase once international flights start from the city's airport. [[Image:vizagsatyam.jpg|200px|thumbnail|Mahindra Satyam Development Center]] |
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Law and order in the city are dealt by [[Visakhapatnam City Police]], equipped with a Police Commissionerate with the Commissioner of Police as the head and with assisted by three [[Deputy Commissioner of Police (India)|deputy commissioners]] for different zones.<ref>{{cite web|title=Official Website of Visakhapatnam Police|url=http://vizagcitypolice.gov.in/VSPAboutUs.html#|website=vizagcitypolice.gov.in|access-date=18 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170516105931/http://vizagcitypolice.gov.in/VSPAboutUs.html|archive-date=16 May 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The current City Police Commissioner is Mr. Manish Kumar Sinha.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Gilai|first=Harish|date=9 October 2020|title=Police to issue licence for temporary cracker shops|language=en-IN|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/police-to-issue-licence-for-temporary-cracker-shops/article32807715.ece|access-date=22 October 2020|issn=0971-751X}}</ref> [[Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority]] (VMRDA) is an urban planning agency that covers the GVMC and its suburbs covering, two corporations, one municipality, one nagar panchayat and 895 villages from two districts of Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram.<ref name="area">{{cite web|title=Key Facts on VMR|url=http://www.vuda.gov.in/pdf/rfp%20for%20area%20development%20plans%2017-9-2015%20FINAL.pdf|website=Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority|access-date=15 February 2016|pages=44–45|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305013742/http://www.vuda.gov.in/pdf/rfp%20for%20area%20development%20plans%2017-9-2015%20FINAL.pdf|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref name="thehinducivic" /> The expanded area of the city, Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region extends to {{Convert|4873|km2|abbr=on}} with a population of [[Indian numbering system|50,18,000]] (Western: 5,018,000) and is under the administration of [[Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Upgradation of VMRDA|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/vizag-to-get-bigger-adds-1200-sq-km/articleshow/65253498.cms|access-date=21 December 2018|work=The Times of India|date=13 August 2018|location=Visakhapatnam|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180914111503/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/vizag-to-get-bigger-adds-1200-sq-km/articleshow/65253498.cms|archive-date=14 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=VMRDA loses 1,628 sq.km to new urban development body|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/vmrda-loses-1628-sq-km-to-new-urban-development-body/articleshow/67966181.cms|work=The Times of India|access-date=13 February 2019|location=Visakhapatnam}}</ref><ref name="metro">{{cite web|title=Key Facts on VMR|url=http://www.vuda.gov.in/pdf/rfp%20for%20area%20development%20plans%2017-9-2015%20FINAL.pdf|website=Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority|access-date=21 December 2015|pages=44–45|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305013742/http://www.vuda.gov.in/pdf/rfp%20for%20area%20development%20plans%2017-9-2015%20FINAL.pdf|archive-date=5 March 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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The District & Sessions Court is located in Vishakapatnam City and it also includes family courts. |
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The growing population and economy have resulted in the revamping of the real estate prices with prices at some prime locations in the city quadrupling over the past couple of years. Various real estate companies are setting up housing projects in the outskirts of the city which is being touted as the future IT destination of the country. |
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=== Legislative Assembly and Parliament === |
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The fishing industry is also on the rise with both foreign and domestic exports of tuna doubling over the past decade. The city has a port called Visakhapatnam Port started in 1933 and a second port called as Gangavaram Port started in 2008 [15 km from Visakhapatnam Port. It started with an investment of 2 billion dollars and is the deepest port in the country with the ability to handle the larger international vessels. Visakhapatnam Port is also expanding and planning to set up a Satellite Port at Bhimili 20 km away from Visakhapatnam. |
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The city has eight [[Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly|legislative assembly]] constituencies within its limits. In the legislative elections [[Ganta Srinivasa Rao]] was elected to the assembly from [[Bheemili Assembly constituency]]. [[Vamsi Krishna Srinivas]] was elected from [[Visakhapatnam South Assembly constituency|Visakhapatnam South]]. For [[Visakhapatnam East Assembly constituency|Visakhapatnam East]], Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu was elected. For [[Visakhapatnam North Assembly constituency|Visakhapatnam North]] [[Penmetsa Vishnu Kumar Raju]] and for [[Visakhapatnam West Assembly constituency|Visakhapatnam West]] [[P. G. V. R. Naidu]] was elected. For the [[Gajuwaka Assembly constituency|Gajuwaka Assembly]], [[Palla Srinivasa Rao]] and for the [[Pendurthi Assembly constituency|Pendurthi Assembly]] [[Panchakarla Ramesh Babu]] were elected. For the [[Anakapalle Assembly constituency|Anakapalle constituency]] [[Konathala Ramakrishna]] was elected.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Members Information |url=https://www.aplegislature.org/web/legislative-assembly/legislative-assembly/member-s-information |access-date=6 September 2024 |website=Andhra Pradesh State Legislature}}</ref> Out of the eight constituencies Anakapalli and Pendurthi fall under the [[Anakapalle Lok Sabha constituency|Anakapalli Lok Sabha Constituency]], who's [[Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha|Member of Parliament]] is [[C. M. Ramesh]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=MPs |url=https://anakapalli.ap.gov.in/mps/ |access-date=6 September 2024 |website=Anakapalli District}}</ref> The current [[Lok Sabha]] Member of Parliament [[Visakhapatnam Lok Sabha constituency|Vishakhapatnam]] is [[Mathukumilli Bharat]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Public Representative |url=https://visakhapatnam.ap.gov.in/elections-2/ |access-date=6 September 2024 |website=Visakhapatnam District}}</ref> |
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== Civic utilities == |
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The city has APIIC Industrial Park at Autonagar and SEZ called as [[Visakhapatnam Special Economic Zone]] started in 1989. The exports from VSEZ stood at approx 1582 crores in 2011.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20100907053509/http://vsez.gov.in/index.htm The Visakhapatnam Special Economic Zone (VSEZ)], Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Govt. of India.</ref> |
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The [[Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited]] (APEPDCL) supplies power to the city of Visakhapatnam.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Electricity {{!}} Visakhapatnam District, Government of Andhra Pradesh {{!}} India|url=https://visakhapatnam.ap.gov.in/public-utility-category/electricity/|access-date=22 October 2020|language=en-US}}</ref> The fire services in the city is carried out by the state fire department, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Response and Fire Department, Eastern region (AP Fire).<ref>{{Cite web|title=AP Fire Services {{!}} Manpower - Deputation other Organisations|url=http://fireservices.ap.gov.in/apfire/Fire/fire_contact_distofficer|access-date=22 October 2020|website=fireservices.ap.gov.in}}</ref> |
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The city water supply is essentially stored in the three service reservoirs – Town Service Reservoir, Dwarakanagar; High-Level Service Reservoir, T.B. Road, Uplands and Circuit House Reservoir, [[Waltair Uplands]]. The city is divided into 14 blocks according to contours and each block is served by separate reservoirs. 35 reservoirs are serving the different segments of the system. Domestic water supply is mainly through public taps and house service connections.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.issuelab.org/resources/23883/23883.pdf|title=Vizag water}}</ref> |
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Multi Product [[Special Economic Zone]]s (SEZ) called APIIC SEZ has been sanctioned for the city and this is coming up in {{convert|5770|acre|km2}} at Atchutapuram, Visakhapatnam. Some of the Industries coming up in this SEZ are WS Industries, |
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Pokarna limited, Uniparts, Confidence Petroleum, Southern Online Bio, Nagarjuna AgriChem, Anjaney Alloys, Maithon Alloys, Abhijit Ferro Alloys etc. and railway line is being laid connecting this SEZ with the Gangavaram Port. |
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There are about 2072 bore wells as groundwater sources. As per a report from 2015, "GVMC relies mostly on surface water for its raw water supply and serves 54.9 per cent of the city through household-level piped connections. There is a supply gap of almost 66 million litres per day (MLD)<ref>{{Cite web|title=VizagCityOnline.com - The Water You Drink|url=https://www.vizagcityonline.com/Water.html#:~:text=The%20principal%20source%20of%20water,70%20kms%20from%20the%20city.&text=This%20is%20the%20first%20protected,and%20was%20constructed%20in%201902.|access-date=22 October 2020|website=www.vizagcityonline.com}}</ref> |
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Brandix Apparel City is already in operation in Atchutapuram. This is specifically a textile based SEZ spread over {{convert|1000|acre|km2}}. The aim of this project is to provide 60000 jobs to the local people. It is expected that exports would reach up to 5500 crores once it is fully operational.<ref>[http://www.brandixapparelcity.com/default.htm Brandix Apparel City]. Brandixapparelcity.com. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> Currently this has foreign textile manufacturers like Pioneer Elastic Fiber, Ocean India, Quantum Clothing, Fountain Set group, Limited Brands, etc. |
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{{As of|2019}}, only 50 per cent of the city has access to underground drainage. This is after the city grew over the last decade and [[Bheemunipatnam|Bheemili]] and [[Anakapalli]] among other peripheral villages came under the GVMC's jurisdiction. The GVMC has taken up a project to extend the underground drainage network with a budget of {{INRConvert|10|c|year=2019}}. The new project will provide underground drainage access to an estimated 8,000 households. The network will be built under the command area of pumping stations at [[Venkatapuram, Prakasam district|Venkata Puram]] and Vimannagar and its vicinity.<ref name="Nov 13">{{Cite news|date=13 November 2019|title=New underground drainage project to cover 8,000 homes|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/new-underground-drainage-project-to-cover-8000-homes/articleshow/72029350.cms|url-status=live|access-date=31 March 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210331180711/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/new-underground-drainage-project-to-cover-8000-homes/articleshow/72029350.cms|archive-date=31 March 2021}}</ref> |
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Pilkington an automotive glass manufacturer and Jawaharlal Nehru Pharma City (JNPC) are also in the city. JNPC is only the Pharma SEZ in the country, and currently JNPC has 38 pharmaceutical companies with international pharmaceutical players like PharmaZell of Germany and Japan's Eisai Pharma. US-based Hospira Chemicals has purchased land for setting up plant in the city. |
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In the year 2015, the municipal corporation generated 920 tons of waste per day. Waste generated from all the wards has been disposed of at the dumpsite in [[Kapuluppada]] since 2007.<ref>{{Cite web|title=SAC|url=http://www.sac.ap.gov.in/Sac/UserInterface/Downlaods/MSWMReports/Vizag%20DPR-1.pdf}}</ref> |
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Companies like Reliance, Brandix and HPCL have purchased huge areas in the SEZ for setting up their industries and Aluminium refineries like Anrak Aluminium, Jindal Aluminium are coming up in the city because of availability of Bauxite reserves around Visakhapatnam, Bhabha Atomic Research Center (BARC) plans to set up its second research facility in the country after Trombay in this region. The city was one of the five in the country selected to hold strategic crude reserves for the nation in times of national emergency. |
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== Economy == |
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Other heavy industries include [[Hindustan Zinc]] Limited, GAIL, IOC Bottling Unit, BPCL Bottling Unit, Synergies Castings Ltd., Rain Calcining Limited, Coromandel Fertilizers, Hindustan Ship Yard and Bharat Heavy Plate and Vessels Limited (BHPV), Visakha Dairy, Vizag Profiles, Essar Pellet Plant, Andhra Polymers [now called as LG Polymers], Andhra cements, Andhra petrochemicals, Andhra Ferroalloys which contribute to the economy of the city. The city also has some Ferro Alloy units because of availability of Manganese Ore around Visakhapatnam. The city is the headquarters for Waltair division of East Coast Railway. The Waltair division has generated 3483 Crore revenues in 2009–2010 and is one of the highest revenue grosser in the Country.<ref>[http://web.archive.org/web/20110704103225/http://203.199.89.157:41140/ecor-waltair/Achivements/Achievements.html Achivements]. East Coast Railway</ref> |
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{{Main|Economy of Visakhapatnam}} |
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[[File:Vizag Steel.jpg|thumb|[[Visakhapatnam Steel Plant|Vizag steel plant]] entrance]] |
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Visakhapatnam is one of the 100 fastest growing cities in the world.<ref>{{cite news|title=11 Indian cities among world's fastest growing - Times of India|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/11-Indian-cities-among-worlds-fastest-growing/articleshow/2481744.cms?referral=PM|access-date=19 May 2017|work=The Times of India|date=23 October 2007|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171012102035/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/11-Indian-cities-among-worlds-fastest-growing/articleshow/2481744.cms?referral=PM|archive-date=12 October 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The usual [[seafood]] exporting capacity of the harbour is {{convert|115000|tonne|ST|lk=in}}<ref>{{cite news|title=Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour to get modern market amenities|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2016/sep/05/visakhapatnam-fishing-harbour-to-get-modern-market-amenities-1516278.html|access-date=19 May 2017|work=The New Indian Express|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170515164309/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2016/sep/05/Visakhapatnam-Fishing-Harbour-to-get-modern-market-amenities-1516278.html|archive-date=15 May 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> and during the [[Financial Year|FY]] 2015, it topped seafood exports in terms of value among other ports.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Kumar|first1=V Sajeev|title=Vizag port tops in seafood exports in terms of value|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/vizag-port-tops-in-seafood-exports-in-terms-of-value/article7383050.ece|access-date=19 May 2017|work=Business Line|date=3 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181122051729/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/agri-business/vizag-port-tops-in-seafood-exports-in-terms-of-value/article7383050.ece|archive-date=22 November 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Visakhapatnam Port]] and [[Gangavaram Port]] are the two ports of the city and the former one topped charts which handled {{convert|60000000|tonne|ST}} of cargo during the financial year 2016–17.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Sarma|first1=Ch. R. S|title=Vizag port cargo handling crosses 60-million tonne mark again|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/vizag-port-cargo-handling-crosses-60million-tonne-mark-again/article9610192.ece|access-date=19 May 2017|work=Business Line|date=31 March 2017}}</ref> The [[Hindustan Shipyard]] undertakes building and repairing of [[Naval fleet]].<ref>{{cite news|title=On national security interests, Govt moves Hindustan Shipyard to Defence ministry - Times of India|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/On-national-security-interests-Govt-moves-Hindustan-Shipyard-to-Defence-ministry/articleshow/5373703.cms?referral=PM|access-date=19 May 2017|work=The Times of India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180408151348/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/On-national-security-interests-Govt-moves-Hindustan-Shipyard-to-Defence-ministry/articleshow/5373703.cms?referral=PM|archive-date=8 April 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Its traditional importance in shipbuilding is confirmed by the fact that India's first ship, the Jala Usha was launched in Visakhapatnam. It is also one of India's main fishing ports, has a dedicated harbour for the fishing industry and handles a large percentage of India's seafood exports. |
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=== Information technology === |
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The Visakhapatnam Special Economic Zone plays a vital role in the industrial growth of the city. The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre has started its operation at autonagar (temporary) while the construction for the center is taking on currently. It is expected to be completed soon, the second only centre for India after Mumbai. Nuclear power technologies are to be set up at this centre including a University of its own by BARC. |
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The growth in the IT sector in recent times has boosted the local economy.<ref>{{cite web |title=IT Industry in Vizag |url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/info-tech/it-industry-at-takeoff-point-in-vizag/article2389513.ece| work=The Hindu|date=23 August 2011 |access-date=8 May 2014}}</ref> In 2016–17, the [[Information technology|IT industry]] in Visakhapatnam witnessed an increase in its turnover which recorded as {{INRConvert|54|b|abbr=on}} with more than 350 firms,<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/tp-andhrapradesh/it-secretary-unveils-big-plans-for-vizag/article17446306.ece|title=IT Secretary unveils big plans for Vizag|last=Patnaik|first=Santosh|work=The Hindu|access-date=16 March 2017}}</ref> in contrast to 2013–14 figures of {{INRConvert|1450|c|year=2013}}.<ref>{{cite news|title=Next two-year crucial for Vizag sector - Times of India|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Next-two-year-crucial-for-Vizag-sector/articleshow/47762772.cms|access-date=19 May 2017|work=The Times of India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171127114734/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Next-two-year-crucial-for-Vizag-sector/articleshow/47762772.cms|archive-date=27 November 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> ''Sunrise Startup Village'', an incubation centre<ref>{{cite news|title=Starup village in Vizag|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/turn-entrepreneurs-naidu-urges-students/article6458742.ece|work=The Hindu|date=30 September 2014|access-date=30 September 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141201225118/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/turn-entrepreneurs-naidu-urges-students/article6458742.ece|archive-date=1 December 2014|url-status=live|last1=Subrahmanyam|first1=G. S.}}</ref> and [[Fintech Valley Vizag]] were established to promote the city as a global [[Financial technology|fintech]] capital in the Andhra Pradesh state.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/magazine/states/story/20181119-andhra-pradesh-the-making-of-a-tech-hub-1384536-2018-11-09|title=Andhra Pradesh: The Making of a Tech Hub|website=India Today|access-date=8 January 2020|last3=November 9|first3=2018UPDATED|last4=Ist|first4=2018 14:53}}</ref> [[Millennium IT Towers]] 1 was inaugurated by the then Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh [[N. Chandrababu Naidu]] on 15 February 2019 and [[Millennium IT Towers]] 2 is in pipeline to promote fintech investments in the city.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.visakhapatnamsmartcity.com/projects.html|title=Projects|last=ColorsThemes|website=visakhapatnamsmartcity.com|access-date=11 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180911191505/https://www.visakhapatnamsmartcity.com/projects.html|archive-date=11 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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There are many national and multi-national IT/ITes and fintech firms such as [[IBM]], [[Wipro]], [[Tech Mahindra]], [[Kenexa]], Infotech, [[Miracle Software Systems]], [[Conduent]], [[Cyient]], [[Paytm]], [[Concentrix]], [[Sutherland]], [[HSBC]], etc. Some more investments are in line, like [[Google X]], Lalith Ahuja's [[ANSR Consulting]], [[Franklin Templeton Investments|Franklin Templeton]], Innova Solutions, etc. at [[Fintech Valley Vizag|Fintech Valley]] in the city.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/franklin-templeton-innova-solutions-to-open-campus-in-city/article22354833.ece|title=Franklin Templeton, Innova Solutions to open campus in city|last=Patnaik|first=Santosh|date=3 January 2018|work=The Hindu|access-date=11 September 2018|issn=0971-751X|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180118062920/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/franklin-templeton-innova-solutions-to-open-campus-in-city/article22354833.ece|archive-date=18 January 2018|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/construction/lalith-ahujas-ansr-to-set-up-rs-1000-crore-fintech-facility-at-vizag/articleshow/61026348.cms|title=Lalith Ahuja's ANSR to set up Rs 1,000 crore fintech facility at Vizag|date=10 October 2017|work=The Economic Times|access-date=11 October 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171011130527/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/indl-goods/svs/construction/lalith-ahujas-ansr-to-set-up-rs-1000-crore-fintech-facility-at-vizag/articleshow/61026348.cms|archive-date=11 October 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The ''Brandix India Apparel City'' is the largest textile park in the country and holds the record for employing more than 15,000 women employees at a single location.<ref>{{cite news|title=Textile Commissioner all praise for Brandix Park|url=http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2016-12-30/Textile-Commissioner-all--praise-for-Brandix-Park/271126|access-date=19 May 2017|work=The Hans India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170530094118/http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2016-12-30/Textile-Commissioner-all--praise-for-Brandix-Park/271126|archive-date=30 May 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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The city has office of National Institute of Oceanography, Indian Meteorological Department. |
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=== Other Industries === |
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The Andhra Pradesh Industrial Infrastructure Corporation (APIIC) has awarded the bid to construct a Knowledge City to Unitech Limited in an area of 700 ha, with an investment of Rs. 35 thousand crores. |
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The Jawaharlal Nehru Pharma City (JNPC) developed at Parawada near Visakhapatnam in {{Convert|2400|acre|km2|abbr=on}} has major [[Pharmaceutical industry|pharma]] companies like, [[Hospira]], [[Mylan]], [[Eisai (company)|Eisai]], [[Dr. Reddy's Laboratories|Reddy's Lab]], [[Aurobindo Pharma]], [[Torrent Pharmaceuticals|Torrent pharma]], Divis Lab, etc.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.pharmabiz.com/NewsDetails.aspx?aid=87846&sid=1|title=USIBC to invest $5 billion in AP's pharma & healthcare sector|website=pharmabiz.com|access-date=23 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161223135837/http://www.pharmabiz.com/NewsDetails.aspx?aid=87846&sid=1|archive-date=23 December 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://ramky.com/jnpc/|title=Jawaharlal Nehru Pharmacity|website=ramky.com|access-date=23 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161230105852/http://ramky.com/jnpc/|archive-date=30 December 2016|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.tutorialwatch.in/top-pharmaceutical-companies-vizag/|title=Top 20 Pharmaceutical Companies in Vizag – Best Pharma Companies|newspaper=TutorialWatch|access-date=23 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161223201114/http://www.tutorialwatch.in/top-pharmaceutical-companies-vizag/|archive-date=23 December 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone Limited]], is the India's first Ultra Modern Medical Equipment Manufacturing & Testing Facility, open to Manufacturers & Innovators.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.amtz.in/index.html|title=AMTZ.IN|website=amtz.in|access-date=23 December 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161223132808/http://www.amtz.in/index.html|archive-date=23 December 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> |
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The prevalence of [[ferroalloy]] plants is due to the availability of manganese ore near Visakhapatnam. Aluminium refineries such as AnRak Aluminium and Jindal Aluminium are developing because of the bauxite reserves around the city.<ref>{{Cite news|last=Bayya|first=Venkatesh|date=18 January 2014|title=Here's the refinery, where's the bauxite?|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Heres-the-refinery-wheres-the-bauxite/articleshow/28983130.cms|access-date=1 April 2021}}</ref> Visakhapatnam is a part of the ''Petroleum, Chemical and Petrochemical Investment Region (PCPIR)'', proposed between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada. The PCPIR is expected to generate 1.2 million jobs and require a projected investment of {{INRConvert|400|b}}.<ref>{{cite news |title=Hpcl plans huge investment |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/hpcl-plans-huge-investment-in-ap/article6813514.ece| work= The Hindu|date=23 January 2015|access-date= 23 January 2015|last1=Patnaik|first1=Santosh}}</ref> [[NTPC Limited|NTPC]]'s 2,000MW [[Simhadri Super Thermal Power Station]] is undergoing an expansion with the construction of an addition supercritical unit that will generate between 660-1,000 MW.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Service |first=Express News |date=2015-03-24 |title=NTPC Plans Super Critical Unit |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra-pradesh/2015/Mar/24/ntpc-plans-super-critical-unit-732486.html |access-date=2024-09-08 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> Hindujas has begun construction of a 1,070 MW thermal power plant in Visakhapatnam district at a cost of US$1.25 billion.<ref>{{Cite web |date=25 July 2016 |title=Hinduja commissions 1,040-MW thermal power project in Vizag |url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/hinduja-commissions-1-040-mw-thermal-power-project-in-vizag-116072501164_1.html |access-date=8 September 2024 |website=Business Standard}}</ref> |
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India aims to build its first strategic oil reserve facility at Visakhapatnam by October 2011.[[Image:vizagindustries.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|HPCL Petro-Chemical Complex]] |
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== Cityscape == |
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===On-going and coming projects related to Visakhapatnam as on 2010=== |
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[[File:INS Kursura at Night 01.jpg|thumbnail|[[INS Kursura]] (S20)]] |
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Hindujas have also started construction of Thermal Power Plant of 1070 MW in Visakhapatnam district with 7000 Crores, |
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[[File:Beautiful view of Visakhapatnam and Bay of Bengal from Tenneti park 1.jpg|thumb|City scape from beach road near Tenneti park]] |
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HPCL is also expanding [[Visakh Refinery]] from 7.5 MT to 15 MT with an investment of 13000 Crores, |
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NTPC-Simhadri is expanding from 1000 MW to 2000 MW with 5000Crores, |
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Visakhapatnam Steel Plant completed its expansion from 3.1 MT to 6.3 MT with 9000 Crores, |
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Visakhapatnam Port is expanding with 3000 Crores to increase its capacity to handle load up to 80 MT per year, |
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HSL has been transferred to Defence Ministry recently some big Naval projects for building long range submarines up to 20,000 Crores are expected, |
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NTPC is also coming with another Ultra Mega Power Project of 4000 MW with an investement of 23,000 Crores in Pudimadaka Village in Visakhapatnam district. |
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Brighton group is coming up with Nuclear Manufacturing equipment factory near Nakkapalli with nearly 3000 Crores, BARC investing 2000 Crores for their new facility in Visakhapatnam, Anrak Aluminium investing up to 8000 Crores in 02 Phases for their Aluminium Refinery in Makavaripalem, Strategic Oil reserve facility coming up at Visakhapatnam with 6700 Crores, Other investors big investors in APSEZ are Confidence petroleum −1000 Crores, Abhijit Ferroalloys −2600 Crores. |
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Recently RINL has announced some Joint Venture Projects inside RINL Facility - RINL Slag Cement Factory project worth 1000Crores ,RINL-BHEL Seamless tubes project worth of 2000Crores,RINL-Power Grid Tower Manfacturing project worth of 350Crores. |
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=== Neighbourhoods === |
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{{See also|List of neighbourhoods in Visakhapatnam}} |
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The city has Eastern Naval Command [ENC] office and Naval Science & Technological Laboratory(DRDO Lab), CQAE [Chief Quality Assurance Establishment] [EFS] Office, Naval Docky yard [started in 1949] and nearly some 05 Naval bases like INS Kalinga, INS Samudrika, INS Satavahana, ENC Base, INS Dega etc. are present in the city. A new base called INS Rambilli is being constructed in {{convert|5000|acre|km2}} with an investment of 1500 Crores and it is believed to be a dedicated submarine base in India. Recently India's first nuclear submarine INS Arihant was launched in Naval dockyard, Visakhapatnam and Bharat Dynamics Ltd has started recently in the city for manufacturing of Torpedoes. The city also has Indian Coast Guard offices. NSTL has plans for expansion in Visakhapatnam and has land in Simhachalam area has been allotted for this purpose. |
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Over the years, Visakhapatnam has turned from a fishing village into a commercial city with busy streets. Most notable areas of the city include urban areas like [[Allipuram]], [[Arilova]], [[Asilmetta]], [[Dwaraka Nagar]], [[Gajuwaka]], [[Gopalapatnam]], [[Jagadamba Centre]], [[Lawsons Bay Colony]], Pendurthi, [[Maddilapalem]], [[Madhurawada]], [[MVP Colony]], [[Rushikonda]], [[Seethammadhara]], [[Siripuram, Visakhapatnam|Siripuram]] and semi-rural suburbs such as [[Anakapalle]], [[Bheemunipatnam]], [[Duvvada]], [[Parawada]], Kommadi and [[Thagarapuvalasa]] . |
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=== Landmarks === |
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Visakhapatnam is a part of the PCPIR [Petroleum and Chemical & Petrochemical investment region] proposed between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada. This PCPIR region is expected to generate employment of 1.2 million and projected investement of 34,30,000 million. |
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Visakhapatnam is one of the main tourism destinations in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The city is known for its beaches, caves and the Eastern Ghats as well as wildlife sanctuaries. About 30% of the city is covered with greenery.<ref>{{cite news|last=Nichenametla|first=Prasad|date=21 October 2014|title=In pics: Hudhud takes the green sheen off Vizag|work=Hindustan Times|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/in-pics-hudhud-takes-the-green-sheen-off-vizag/story-EVRN3Ti9RvewyzJl1P6jjI.html|url-status=live|access-date=1 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128030442/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/in-pics-hudhud-takes-the-green-sheen-off-vizag/story-EVRN3Ti9RvewyzJl1P6jjI.html|archive-date=28 January 2021}}</ref> |
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==Tourism== |
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{{Advert|section|date=December 2010}} |
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[[Image:vb194.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|A park on RK beach]] |
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[[File:Visakhapatnam, Beach Road from Kailashagiri.jpg|200px|thumbnail|A view of the Beach Road from Kailasagiri]] |
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[[File:Kailash Giri, Visakhapatnam.jpg|thumb|Kailasagiri.]] |
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Major landmarks in the city include [[Dolphin's Nose]], [[lighthouse]], [[Kailasagiri]], [[Beach Road, Visakhapatnam|Beach Road]], [[NTR VMRDA Park|VMRDA Park]], [[Visakha Museum]] and Matsyadarsini (an aquarium). The [[INS Kursura (S20)|INS Kursura Submarine Museum]] and Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft [[TU 142 Aircraft Museum]] opposite to each other is the only one of its kind in the world,{{Failed verification|date=April 2021}} conceptualising the hunted and hunter of the wars.<ref>{{cite web|date=18 October 2017|title=Aircraft Museum To Be Major Tourist Attraction in Vizag: Government|url=https://businessworld.in/article/Aircraft-Museum-To-Be-Major-Tourist-Attraction-In-Vizag-Government/18-10-2017-128949/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171019220946/http://businessworld.in/article/Aircraft-Museum-To-Be-Major-Tourist-Attraction-In-Vizag-Government/18-10-2017-128949/|archive-date=19 October 2017|access-date=1 April 2021|website=BW BusinessWorld}}</ref> [[Indira Gandhi Zoological Park]] in the city has variety of wildlife species. [[Erra Matti Dibbalu]] ([[Dune|Red sand dunes]]) are situated between Visakhapatnam and [[Bheemunipatnam]] are one of the [[Geoheritage|geo-heritage]] sites in the country. This tourist spot is now protected and preserved as a heritage site.<ref>{{cite web |title=Scenic Erra Matti Dibbalu Now Declared a Geo heritage Site |url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/Vizag%E2%80%99s-Scenic-Erra-Matti-Dibbalu-Now-Declared-a-Geo-heritage-Site/2014/07/24/article2346408.ece/ |work=The New Indian Express|access-date=24 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141122090258/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/Vizag%E2%80%99s-Scenic-Erra-Matti-Dibbalu-Now-Declared-a-Geo-heritage-Site/2014/07/24/article2346408.ece |archive-date=22 November 2014 |url-status=dead}}</ref> D Ramanaidu Film Studio is one of the film shooting destinations in the city.<ref>{{Cite news |date=2015-02-19 |title=Obituary: D Ramanaidu, the prolific filmmaker with Midas touch |url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/magazines/panache/obituary-d-ramanaidu-the-prolific-filmmaker-with-midas-touch/articleshow/46287781.cms?from=mdr |access-date=2024-09-08 |work=The Economic Times |issn=0013-0389}}</ref> [[Telugu Samskruthika Niketanam]] on atop Kailasagiri was developed by World Telugu Federation and Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority,<ref>{{cite web|title=CM to open Telugu Heritage Museum|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/cm-to-open-telugu-heritage-museum/article7893807.ece/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200310222923/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/cm-to-open-telugu-heritage-museum/article7893807.ece|url-status=dead|archive-date=10 March 2020|work=The Hindu|access-date=19 November 2015}}</ref> Adding one more feather to its cap, Visakhapatnam is home to India's tallest musical fountain opened in the Vuda City Central Park. Oscillating vertically at 360 degrees, the fountain dances to the tune of digital music in different colours.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2016-08-25/Vizag-to-have-Indias-tallest-musical-fountain/250478 |title=Vizag to have India's tallest musical fountain |publisher=Thehansindia.com |date=25 August 2016 |access-date=12 March 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161024023628/http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2016-08-25/Vizag-to-have-Indias-tallest-musical-fountain/250478 |archive-date=24 October 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Central Park to have 'iconic' fountain|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/central-park-to-have-iconic-fountain/article8024566.ece/|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200506121418/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/central-park-to-have-iconic-fountain/article8024566.ece|archive-date=6 May 2020|access-date=24 December 2015|work=The Hindu}}</ref> |
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Visakhapatnam has a range of tourist attractions including beaches, cliffs, parks on the hilltop facing the sea, long drives along the beach road, a zoological park and wildlife sanctuary, a submarine museum, hill stations, limestone caves, mountain ranges and colorful valleys, all within 100 km from the city. There are two five-star hotels, The Taj and The Park, and a full range of other accommodation<ref>[http://aptdc.in/vizag/accommodation.php APTDC – ANDHRA PRADESH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION OFFICIAL WEBSITE: Destinations, Hyderabad, Tirupati, Visakhapatnam, Puttaparthi, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada, Warangal, Themes, Heritage, Nature, Wildlife, Religion, Beaches, Adventure, Fairs & Festivals, Health & Wellness, Romantic, Quick Break, Rural Tourism]. Aptdc.in (2011-10-29). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> |
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Beaches along the coastline of the Bay of Bengal include [[RK Beach]], [[Rushikonda Beach]], and [[Mangamaripeta]] Beach. Others are [[Yarada Beach|Yarada]], [[Bheemili Beach|Bheemili]], Lawson's Bay, Tenneti, [[Sagar Nagar]], Thotlakonda and Gangavaram beaches.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Gilai|first1=Harish|title=Vizag Beaches Among Most Dangerous in World, Here's Why|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/Vizag-Beaches-Among-Most-Dangerous-in-World-Heres-Why/2015/07/27/article2942716.ece|access-date=15 February 2016|work=The New Indian Express|date=27 July 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160227115103/http://www.newindianexpress.com/states/andhra_pradesh/Vizag-Beaches-Among-Most-Dangerous-in-World-Heres-Why/2015/07/27/article2942716.ece|archive-date=27 February 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Borra Caves]] are caves discovered by British geologist [[William King (geologist)|William King]] in 1807.<ref name="city_of_destiny 2">{{cite book|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=WfQGAgAAQBAJ&q=which+were+discovered+by+British+geologist+William+King+in+1807.&pg=PA57|title=Visakhapatnam-The City of Destiny-India|isbn=9781257065103|last1=Academy|first1=Students'|publisher=Lulu.com }}</ref> ''Tyda'' (an Eco-tourism project), [[Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary]] under [[Andhra Pradesh Forest Department]] are wildlife conservation sites near the city.<ref name="aptdc">{{cite web|title=Vizag city tourism|url=http://www.aptdc.gov.in/vizag.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140630033556/http://www.aptdc.gov.in/vizag.html|archive-date=30 June 2014|access-date=28 May 2014|publisher=AP Tourism Department}}</ref> |
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Kailasagiri is a park developed by VUDA on a hilltop adjacent to the sea. It offers views of the Bay of Bengal, Visakhapatnam city and the Eastern Ghats. A ropeway connects this park from the bottom of the hill.<ref name="aptdc.in">[http://aptdc.in/vizag/sight_see.php APTDC – ANDHRA PRADESH TOURISM DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION OFFICIAL WEBSITE: Destinations, Hyderabad, Tirupati, Visakhapatnam, Puttaparthi, Rajahmundry, Vijayawada, Warangal, Themes, Heritage, Nature, Wildlife, Religion, Beaches, Adventure, Fairs & Festivals, Health & Wellness, Romantic, Quick Break, Rural Tourism]. Aptdc.in (2011-10-29). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> |
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== Culture == |
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The Beach Road from East point colony to Coastal battery is studded with parks, statues, etc., and is an evening gathering point. Along the road can be found India's only submarine museum, INS Kursura, as well as the Visakha museum and Matsyadarsini (an aquarium). VUDA park, at the beginning of the Beach Road, has a musical fountain, and entertainment for children. It has a roller skating ground, which has served as the venue for several national<ref>[http://www.indiaskating.com/ Indian Amateur Roller Skating Academy | Visakhapatnam]. Indiaskating.com. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> and international skating competitions.{{Citation needed|date=December 2010}} |
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{{Main|Culture of Visakhapatnam}} |
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[[File:A day in the life of a rural 03.jpg|thumb|A villager with a decorated bull during Pongal festival]] |
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The city embraces rich religious diversity, with Hinduism being the majority religion, alongside Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism. Telugu is the predominantly spoken language, reflecting the city's cosmopolitan culture with a significant presence of Odia, Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam speakers. Visakhapatnam offers a blend of South Indian and Western cuisines, with popular dishes like Moori Mixture and bamboo chicken of [[Araku Valley]]. The city celebrates various festivals including Makar Sankranti, Ugadi, Vinayaka Chavithi, Diwali, and Dasara. Cricket is the most favoured sport, with facilities like the Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium. Additionally, the city is home to attractions like the Telugu Samskruthika Niketanam Museum, Submarine Museum, TUV, and Harrier aircraft museums. |
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Rushikonda Beach, 6 km away from Visakhapatnam city, has become a favorite evening spot. Bhimili-Visakhapatnam beach Road, 30 km long, offers one of the best views of the sea, sand, hills and greenery. Many parks are constructed adjacent to this road. Tenneti park beach park is constructed on the cliff of Kailasagiri. There are several points from which the beautiful rocky beach beneath can be seen. Many Telugu, Tamil and Hindi movies were filmed here.<ref>[http://www.filmapia.com/published/places/gangavaram-beach Movie Location > Gangavaram Beach | Movies and Locations | Filmapia | Reel Sites. Real Sights]. Filmapia (2011-08-08). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref><ref>[http://www.indiaglitz.com/channels/tamil/article/72328.html Vijay's most daring stunts till date in 'Velayudham'! – Tamil Movie News]. IndiaGlitz. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref><ref>[http://www.rediff.com/movies/slide-show/slide-show-1-south-kannada-news/20111014.htm Arbaaz Khan to act in a Kannada film – Rediff.com Movies]. Rediff.com (2011-10-14). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref>{{Citation needed|date=December 2010}} |
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[[Image:Simhachalam-temple-2 big.jpg|200px|thumbnail|Simhachalam Temple]] |
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===Poets=== |
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'''[[Simhachalam]]''' is a hill shrine of Lord Narasimha 16 km north of the city. The carved 16-pillared Natya mantapa and the 96-pillared Kalyana mandapa are highlights at the Simhachalam temple. It was constructed by Gajapathi Kings of [[Orissa]] before 1500 AD. Mr.[[Poosapati Ananda Gajapati Raju]] (heir to His Highness Maharaja [[Vijayrama Gajapati Raju]] Bahadur of former [[Vizianagaram princely state]]).{{Citation needed|date=December 2010}} |
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Some of the notable poets from the city include [[Sri Sri (writer)|Sri Sri]], [[Gollapudi Maruti Rao]], [[Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry]]. |
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===Religious sites=== |
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The city has Ramanaidu Film Studios which has started recently.<ref>[http://www.ragalahari.com/functions/2741/rama-naidu-film-studios-photo-gallery-at-visakhapatnam.aspx Ragalahari.com]. Ragalahari.com. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref>{{Citation needed|date=December 2010}} |
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[[File:Simhachalam-temple-2 big.jpg|thumbnail|right|Simhachalam Temple]] |
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Some of the religious sites are also of great importance like ''[[Varaha Lakshmi Narasimha temple, Simhachalam|Simhachalam]]'' temple of Lord [[Narasimha]] {{convert|16|km|abbr=on}} north of the city,<ref>{{cite web|title=History of temple|url=http://www.simhachalam.com/history/|publisher=simhachalam|access-date=28 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140104224702/http://www.simhachalam.com/history/|archive-date=4 January 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=About Simhachalam temple|url=http://simhachalamdevasthanam.net/|publisher=simhachalam|access-date=28 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110423080923/http://simhachalamdevasthanam.net/|archive-date=23 April 2011|url-status=live}}</ref> and [[Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple|Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple]]. Archaeological excavations of Buddhist shrines and sites, including Thotlakonda, Bavikonda, Pavuralakonda and Panchadarla, revealed Buddhist dominance in this area.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Bhattacharjee |first=Sumit |date=2022-11-26 |title=Buddhist treasure troves of Visakhapatnam |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/buddhist-treasure-troves-of-visakhapatnam/article66175256.ece |access-date=2024-09-09 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> |
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== Transport == |
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Indira Gandhi Zoological Park: Indira Gandhi Zoological Park, between the National Highway 5 and Beach Road, spreading over an area of 250 ha, exhibits about 700 animals belonging to about 89 species. |
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{{Main|Transport in Visakhapatnam}} |
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[[Image:Araku-valley-4 big.jpg|250px|thumbnail|left|Araku-valley]] |
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[[File:Visakhapatnam Highway Service.jpg|thumb|left|Visakhapatnam Metro Express Highway Service at Kurmannapalem]] |
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Outside the city, 112 km from Visakhapatnam, '''[[Araku Valley]]''' is an important tourist destination.<ref>[http://www.go2india.in/ap/araku-valley.php Araku valley of Vizag or Visakhapatnam hill station tour]. Go2india.in (2011-06-06). Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> It is a hill station at an elevation of over 1000 m. famous for its gardens, valleys, waterfalls and streams.<ref name="aptdc.in"/><ref>[http://visakhapatnamtourism.blogspot.com/2009/07/chaaparai-waterfalls-near-araku-valley.html Visakhapatnam Tourism: Chaaparai Waterfalls Near Araku Valley, Visakhapatnam]. Visakhapatnamtourism.blogspot.com. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref><ref>[http://www.arakuvalley.info/attractions/katiki-waterfalls/ Katiki waterfalls|Borracaves |Araku loya| Araku Waterfalls | Araku Valley]. Arakuvalley.info. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> On the way to Araku Hill station are the [[Borra Caves]]<ref>[http://www.go2india.in/ap/borra-caves.php Borra Caves]. Go2india.in. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> which are naturally formed. They were discovered by British Geologist William King in 1807. |
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[[File:Visakhapatnam railway station.jpg|thumb|[[Visakhapatnam Junction railway station]]]] |
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The city commuters prefer city buses and [[auto rickshaw]] as the primary mode of transport, followed by two-wheelers and cars.<ref name="transport">{{cite web|title=NMT city-specific plan for Visakhapatnam|url=http://moud.gov.in/upload/uploadfiles/files/NMTVisakhapatnamCSPFINAL.pdf|website=Vijayawada Municipal Corporation|access-date=18 April 2017|page=23}}{{Dead link|date=August 2018 |bot=InternetArchiveBot |fix-attempted=yes }}</ref> Road and rail are preferred for long-distance commuting and are supported by [[Dwaraka bus station]] and [[Visakhapatnam Junction railway station]] respectively.<ref>{{cite news|title=Dasara rush starts at rail, bus stations - Times of India|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Dasara-rush-starts-at-rail-bus-stations/articleshow/43576185.cms|access-date=20 May 2017|work=The Times of India|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190228193001/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Dasara-rush-starts-at-rail-bus-stations/articleshow/43576185.cms|archive-date=28 February 2019|url-status=live}}</ref><ref name="indiatimes1">{{cite news|title=Visakhapatnam railway station witnesses 40,000 footfall before fest - Times of India|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/city-rly-station-witnesses-40000-footfall-before-fest/articleshow/56505803.cms|access-date=20 May 2017|work=The Times of India}}</ref> It also has sea and air travel infrastructure such as, [[Visakhapatnam Port]]<ref>{{cite news|title=Passenger ship sails to Andaman under clear sky|url=http://www.thehansindia.com/posts/index/Andhra-Pradesh/2016-05-22/Passenger-ship-sails-to-Andaman-under-clear-sky/229713|access-date=20 May 2017|work=The Hans India}}</ref> and [[Visakhapatnam Airport]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Gopal|first1=B. Madhu|title=Flurry of special flights at city airport|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Flurry-of-special-flights-at-city-airport/article17105742.ece|access-date=20 May 2017|work=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170127201024/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Flurry-of-special-flights-at-city-airport/article17105742.ece|archive-date=27 January 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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The Marriage Bureau For Rich People series of novels, written by Farahad Zama and published worldwide in over twelve languages, are set in Visakhapatnam and feature many landmarks of the city and its surroundings.<ref>[http://www.hachette.co.uk/news/pressreleases/-The-Marriage-Bureau-for-Rich-People--by-Farahad-Z Hachette UK – "The Marriage Bureau for Rich People" by Farahad Zama (Abacus) wins the Melissa Nathan Award]. Hachette.co.uk. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref><ref>[http://www.literateur.com/the-marriage-bureau-farahad-zama/ The Marriage Bureau… – Farahad Zama | The Literateur Magazine]. Literateur.com. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> |
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{{wide image|Vizag Sea view.jpg|1000px|A panoramic photo of the [[Bay of Bengal]], from Beach Road, [[Vizag]]}} |
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The [[Andhra Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation|APSRTC]] operates city, district, and inter-state bus services from Dwaraka bus station.<ref>{{cite news|date=20 October 2011|title=Buses towards Vizianagaram to leave from Dwaraka Bus Station|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/buses-towards-vizianagaram-to-leave-from-dwaraka-bus-station/article2555027.ece|url-status=live|access-date=20 May 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200310222907/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/buses-towards-vizianagaram-to-leave-from-dwaraka-bus-station/article2555027.ece|archive-date=10 March 2020}}</ref> Over 600 city buses operate over 150 routes, in addition to [[Visakhapatnam Bus Rapid Transit System|Bus Rapid Transit System]] in two corridors of Pendurthi and Simhachalam.<ref name=transport />{{rp|21}} A planned ''Integrated Bus Terminal Complex'' would be built at Maddilapalem.<ref>{{Cite news|date=20 June 2016|title=Integrated bus terminal soon in city|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Integrated-bus-terminal-soon-in-city/article14433769.ece|url-status=live|access-date=1 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200310222843/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Integrated-bus-terminal-soon-in-city/article14433769.ece|archive-date=10 March 2020}}</ref> Apart from buses, there are about 25,000 auto rickshaws plying on the city roads which provide [[intermediate public transport]].<ref name=transport />{{rp|22}} |
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===Buddhists sites=== |
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[[Image:vb215.jpg|200px|thumbnail|Buddhist stupa at [[Bojjannakonda]]]] |
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<!-- Deleted image removed: [[Image:vb290.jpg|200px|thumbnail|left|Thotlakonda]] --> |
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Visakhapatnam is the headquarters of [[South Coast Railway zone]] of Indian railways. [[Visakhapatnam railway station]] is as an ''A1'' station<ref>{{cite web|title=Statement showing Category-wise No.of stations|url=http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/StationRedevelopment/AI&ACategoryStns.pdf|website=Indian Railways|access-date=12 May 2017|page=2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160128044328/http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/StationRedevelopment/AI%26ACategoryStns.pdf|archive-date=28 January 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> with the highest gross revenue in the [[Waltair railway division]].<ref>{{cite news|title=Waltair Division nets highest-ever earnings|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Waltair-Division-nets-highest-ever-earnings/article14380107.ece|access-date=20 May 2017|work=The Hindu}}</ref> It serves an average of 20,000–25,000 passengers daily and may rise to 40,000 during festivals.<ref name="indiatimes1" /> It has the country's largest diesel locomotive shed with a capacity of 206.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/railwayboard/uploads/directorate/mec_engg/downloads/DLS/ECOR/Vishakhapatnam.pdf |title=Diesel Locomotive Shed, Visakhapatnam |publisher=Indian Railways |access-date=28 August 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924034902/http://www.indianrailways.gov.in/railwayboard/uploads/directorate/mec_engg/downloads/DLS/ECOR/Vishakhapatnam.pdf |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref> Visakhapatnam Metro is a planned metro rail project.<ref name="indiatimes">{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/First-phase-of-Vizag-metro-rail-to-be-ready-by-end-of-2018/articleshow/48834953.cms|title=First phase of Vizag metro rail to be ready by the end of 2018|work=The Times of India|date=5 September 2015 |access-date=23 October 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150913124406/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/First-phase-of-Vizag-metro-rail-to-be-ready-by-end-of-2018/articleshow/48834953.cms|archive-date=13 September 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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Visakhapatnam is surrounded by ancient Buddhist sites, most of which have been excavated recently. The imprint of Buddhist legacy is so strong here that the interest of archeologists in this area is growing by the day. |
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[[File:Vizag airport terminal full view.jpg|thumb|Visakhapatnam Airport Terminal]] |
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The Buddhist Complex on the Mangamaripeta hilltop, locally known as [[Thotlakonda]], lies about 16 km from Visakhapatnam on Visakhapatnam-Bheemili Beach Road. After its discovery (during an aerial survey), the Government of A.P declared the 48 ha site as a protected monument in 1978. Excavations in 1988 to 1992 exposed structural remains and artifacts, classified as Religious, Secular and Civil. These structures include the Stupa, Chaityagrihas, pillared congregation halls, bhandagaras, refectory (bhojanasala), drainage and stone pathways. |
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{{As of|2013}}, the percentage of transport mode shares in the city are, 18% buses, 9% autos, 15% two-wheelers, 2% cars and 55% non-motorised transport (bicycles and pedestrians).<ref name=transport />{{rp|23}} The total road network accounts for a total length of {{Convert|2007.10|km|abbr=on}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://centralapp.cdma.ap.gov.in:8080/CDMAAPTaxesInfo/RoadDetails.jsp|title=DETAILS OF ROADS IN EACH ULB OF ANDHRA PRADESH|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160801101300/http://centralapp.cdma.ap.gov.in:8080/CDMAAPTaxesInfo/RoadDetails.jsp|archive-date=1 August 2016}}</ref> [[National Highway 16 (India)|NH16]], a major highway and a part of the [[Golden Quadrilateral]] system bypasses the city. |
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Bavikonda is an important Buddhist heritage site located on a hill about 15 km, northeast from Visakhapatnam city. Here the Buddhist habitation is noticed on a 16 ha flat terraced area. The Hinayana school of Buddhism was practiced at the monastery between the 3rd century B.C. and the 3rd century A.D. Bavikonda has remains of an entire Buddhist complex, comprising 26 structures belonging to three phases. A piece of bone stored in an urn recovered here is believed to belong to the mortal remains of the Buddha. |
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[[Visakhapatnam Airport]] had served a total of 2,815,205 passengers in 2018, an increase of 16.8% from the previous year. It handled a total of 23,264 aircraft during that year. |
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In 1907 a British archaeologist, Alexander Rea, unearthed [[Sankaram]], a 2000-year-old Buddhist Heritage site. Located 40 km from South of Visakhapatnam, it is known locally as [[Bojjannakonda]]. The three phases of Buddhism flourished here, ''viz.'' Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana. This complex is famous for its numerous monolithic votive stupas, rock-cut caves, and brick structural edifices. Excavations yielded several historic potteries and Satavahana coins dating back to the 1st century A.D. Similarly at Lingalakonda, there are innumerable rock-cut monolithic stupas in rows spread over the hill. The Vihara was active for about 1,000 years, spanning the Theravada, Mahayana and Vajrayana phases of Buddhism. |
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[[Visakhapatnam Port]] is one of 13 major [[List of ports in India|ports in India]] and the only major port of Andhra Pradesh. It is India's second-largest port by volume of cargo handled. It is located on the east coast of India and is located midway between the [[Chennai Port|Chennai]] and [[Port of Kolkata|Kolkata Ports]]. Cruise shipping is operational between Visakhapatnam and [[Andaman and Nicobar Islands|Andaman and Nicobar islands]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.vizagport.com/|title=VISAKHAPATNAM PORT TRUST - HOME PAGE|last=fullahead.org|website=vizagport.com|access-date=12 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140503082444/http://www.vizagport.com/|archive-date=3 May 2014|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Basu|first=Arpit|date=14 September 2019|title=Now, you can 'cruise' to Malaysia from city|work=The Times of India|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/now-you-can-cruise-to-malaysia-from-city/articleshow/71118502.cms|url-status=live|access-date=1 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210401180444/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/now-you-can-cruise-to-malaysia-from-city/articleshow/71118502.cms|archive-date=1 April 2021}}</ref> |
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[[Pavuralakonda]], or 'the hill of the pigeons', is a hillock lying to the west of Bhimli, at about 24 km from Visakhapatnam. The Buddhist settlement found here is estimated to have witnessed human habitation between 1st century BC to 2nd century AD. Sixteen rock-cut cisterns for impounding rainwater are found on the hillock, which offer a panoramic view of the coastline. |
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== Education == |
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[[Gopalapatnam]], situated on the left bank of River Tandava, is a village surrounded by brick stupas, viharas and other Buddhist remains. Ancient pottery was also excavated from these sites. |
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{{See also|List of educational institutions in Visakhapatnam}} |
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[[File:St Aloysius Anglo Indian High School (SAS) established in 1847 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.jpg|thumb|[[St Aloysius' Anglo-Indian High School]] (SAS) established in 1847 in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh]] |
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Primary and secondary school education is imparted by government, aided and private schools, under the ''School Education Department'' of the state.<ref>{{cite web|title=School Education Department|url=http://rmsaap.nic.in/Notification_TSG_2015.pdf|publisher=School Education Department, Government of Andhra Pradesh|access-date=12 April 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160319051231/http://rmsaap.nic.in/Notification_TSG_2015.pdf|archive-date=19 March 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=The Department of School Education – Official AP State Government Portal |url=http://www.ap.gov.in/department/organizations/school-education/ |website=ap.gov.in |access-date=7 November 2016 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161107155331/http://www.ap.gov.in/department/organizations/school-education/ |archive-date= 7 November 2016 }}</ref> As per the school information report for the academic year 2016–17, urban Visakhapatnam had [[Indian numbering system|1,44,268]] (Western: 144,268) students<ref>{{cite web|title=Student Information Report|url=http://cse.ap.gov.in/DSE/districtStudentReport.do?mode=getVillageReportsList&mandalCode=281329&mandalName=VISAKHAPATNAM%20URBAN|website=Commissionerate of School Education|publisher=Child info 2016–17, District School Education – Andhra Pradesh|access-date=8 November 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190301013417/https://cse.ap.gov.in/DSE/districtStudentReport.do?mode=getVillageReportsList&mandalCode=281329&mandalName=VISAKHAPATNAM%20URBAN|archive-date=1 March 2019|url-status=dead}}</ref> enrolled in 434 schools.<ref>{{cite web|title=GIS Coordinates|url=http://cse.ap.gov.in/DSE/longitudecount.do?mode=displayVillages&mandalId=281329&distId=2813|website=Commissionerate of School Education|publisher=Government of Andhra Pradesh|access-date=8 November 2016}}</ref> The [[Central Board of Secondary Education]], [[Secondary School Certificate]] or the [[Indian Certificate of Secondary Education]] are the different types of syllabus followed by different schools. The medium of instruction followed by schools are English and Telugu.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Devalla|first1=Rani|title=Introduction of English medium in municipal schools decried|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Introduction-of-English-medium-in-municipal-schools-decried/article16995452.ece|access-date=6 June 2017|work=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170106163033/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Introduction-of-English-medium-in-municipal-schools-decried/article16995452.ece|archive-date=6 January 2017|url-status=live}}</ref> The ''St. Aloysius Anglo Indian Boys High School '' is the oldest school in the city to have established in the year 1847.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Benjamin|first1=Ravi. P.|title=Old town, a pale shadow of a glorious past|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/old-town-a-pale-shadow-of-a-glorious-past/article4676052.ece|access-date=6 June 2017|work=The Hindu|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130505031004/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/old-town-a-pale-shadow-of-a-glorious-past/article4676052.ece|archive-date=5 May 2013|url-status=live}}</ref> The Visakhapatnam District Central Library is supported by the government and is located at Dwaraka Nagar.<ref>{{cite web|title=Public Libraries in Visakhapatnam district|url=http://publiclibraries.ap.nic.in/distwise/visakhapatnam.html|website=publiclibraries.ap.nic.in|access-date=6 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170618174945/http://publiclibraries.ap.nic.in/distwise/visakhapatnam.html|archive-date=18 June 2017|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|date=17 September 2016|title=Buzz of activity at The Hindu Ozone Day contest|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Buzz-of-activity-at-The-Hindu-Ozone-Day-contest/article14985360.ece|url-status=live|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210128220410/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Buzz-of-activity-at-The-Hindu-Ozone-Day-contest/article14985360.ece|archive-date=28 January 2021}}</ref> |
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==Retail and Entertainment== |
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===Shopping malls=== |
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The city has seen rapid growth in the retail and entertainment sectors during the past decade. Visakhapatnam contains a number of shopping malls. Some of the malls are Visakhapatnam Central, CMR Central, CMR Shopping Mall, V-Square Shopping Mall, Kalanjali, Kalaniketan Mall, and M&M Mall. |
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[[Image:2384 a.jpeg|100px|thumbnail|left|Grand Bay Hotel]] |
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There are tens of junior colleges under Government, Andhra Pradesh Social Welfare Residential and private undertakings.<ref name="colleges">{{cite web|title=List of colleges in Visakhapatnam district|url=https://bie.ap.gov.in/CollegesReport.do?mode=GetMandalWise¶m2=dist&dist_code=3&dist_name=Visakhapatnam&mandal_code=&mandal_name=|website=Board of Intermediate Education|access-date=27 September 2016}}{{dead link|date=April 2021|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref> [[Andhra University]] is the only autonomous college approved under ''Universities Grant Commission'' scheme.<ref>{{cite web|title=Autonomous colleges list|url=http://www.ugc.ac.in/oldpdf/colleges/autonomous_colleges-list.pdf|website=Universities Grants Commission|access-date=27 September 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161018071151/http://www.ugc.ac.in/oldpdf/colleges/autonomous_colleges-list.pdf|archive-date=18 October 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> ''[[Mrs. A. V. N. College]]'' is one of the oldest educational institution in the city.<ref name="city_of_destiny 2" />{{rp|35}} |
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===Entertainment=== |
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The City has seen a new high in the entertainment sector with INOX, a famous Indian Multiplex chain, setting up 10 screens here. The multiplex in the city constitutes 6 Screens at Varun Beach and 4 screens at CMR Central Mall and Vmax multiplex has been recently opened. Few more mutiplex chains evinced interest in this fast growing city, most of which would complete construction in the next 2 years. Visakhapatnam has a good number of outlets for famous brands like [[Fabindia]], Lee, Levis, H&A, United Colours Of Benetton, Pepe Jeans etc. in [[Waltair uplands]] and [[Siripuram]].Baskin Robbins has also been opened recently in the city at multiplexes like CMR Central Mall and VARUN Beach [[INOX Leisure Limited|INOX]] Mall. There are about 35 Movie Theaters<ref>[http://www.cinealerts.com/visakhapatnam/theater/list/ 35 Movie Theaters]. Cinealerts.com. Retrieved on 2011-12-03.</ref> in city. |
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The [[Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management|GITAM University]] and the [[Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering]] are other technical education institutions in the city. Visakhapatnam is also home to [[Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University]] (DSNLU), which is the [[National Law Universities|National Law University]] for the state of Andhra Pradesh. DSNLU takes entrance through [[Common Law Admission Test]] and ranks 15th by order of establishment among the 17 National Law Universities. The city is due to get India's first packaging park<ref>{{Cite news|last=Patnaik|first=Santosh|date=7 January 2015|title=India's first packaging park likely to be set up in Vizag|work=The Hindu|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/indias-first-packaging-park-likely-to-be-set-up-in-vizag/article6761827.ece|access-date=2 April 2021}}</ref> with an Indian Institute of Packaging, IIP<ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/IIP-studying-viability-of-extension-centre-in-Visakhapatnam/articleshow/42154059.cms|title=IIP studying viability of extension centre in Visakhapatnam|work=The Times of India|date=10 September 2014 |access-date=31 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150223113654/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/City/Visakhapatnam/IIP-studying-viability-of-extension-centre-in-Visakhapatnam/articleshow/42154059.cms|archive-date=23 February 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> and BITS Pilani & Birla International School under the aegis of Sarala Birla Academy.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Four-sites-identified-for-BITS-Sarala-Birla-Academy-in-district/articleshow/45959419.cms|title=Four sites identified for BITS, Sarala Birla Academy in district|work=The Times of India|date=21 January 2015 |access-date=31 January 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150125132224/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/visakhapatnam/Four-sites-identified-for-BITS-Sarala-Birla-Academy-in-district/articleshow/45959419.cms|archive-date=25 January 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==Sports== |
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[[Image:vizagacavdca.jpg|thumb|250px|ACA-VDCA Stadium at Madhurawada hosting the India-Sri Lanka ODI.]] |
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[[Cricket]] is the most popular game followed by [[tennis]] and [[football (soccer)|football]]. The city is home to a number of local cricket teams participating in various district and zonal events. Gully cricket – a form of cricket played in empty streets or maidans is a popular pastime for local school/college going kids in the evenings. Visakhapatnam also co-hosted the 32nd [[National Games of India|National Games]] along with the state capital, [[Hyderabad, India|Hyderabad]]. |
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Visakhapatnam has 7 cricket stadiums which are used for Ranji Trophy matches. However only 2 of these stadiums have been used for [[One Day International]] matches. |
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* [[Indira Priyadarshini Stadium]] (5 ODI Matches): Also known as the Municipal Corporation Stadium, it hosted the first ODI match on 9 December 1988 and the last of the 5 on 3 April 2001. The stadium has discontinued hosting ODI matches in favor of the newer ACA-VDCA Stadium, which is situated in the satellite township of Madhurawada. The stadium is set amidst the hills and offers a scenic view. |
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*[[ACA-VDCA Stadium]]: (4 ODI Matches): The ACA-VDCA Stadium has hosted 4 ODIs with India winning against [[Pakistani cricket team|Pakistan]] in the first, [[Sri Lankan cricket team|Sri Lanka]] in the second, [[Australian cricket team|Australia]] in the third and [[West Indies cricket team|West Indies]] in the fourth. Now this stadium is upgraded to host day/night matches. It has the most advanced flood lights in India after Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, Kochi. This stadium is recently named as [[YS Rajasekhara Reddy]] Stadium. |
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The city of Visakhapatnam has never hosted a [[Test cricket|Test Match]]. The [[ACA-VDCA Stadium]] was recently awarded Test status. This makes the ACA stadium the ninth stadium to have a Test status in the country and the second in Andhra Pradesh. |
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* Port Stadium: It is the second largest stadium in Visakhapatnam city. |
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The [[Indian Maritime University]] (IMU) was established as a central university by the government of India by an act of Parliament (the Indian Maritime University Act 2008). IMU is poised to play a role in the development of human resources for the maritime sector. The city also has the [[National Institute of Oceanography, India|National Institute of Oceanography]]. The [[Indian Institutes of Management|Indian Institute of Management]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/iimv-to-begin-with-flagship-programme-in-management/article6837692.ece|title=IIM-V to begin with flagship programme in management|author=Sumit Bhattacharjee|work=The Hindu|date=30 January 2015|access-date=1 February 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150713203512/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/iimv-to-begin-with-flagship-programme-in-management/article6837692.ece|archive-date=13 July 2015|url-status=live}}</ref> [[Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=145753|title=Petroleum Minister Launches Website of IIPE Visakhapatnam|access-date=29 June 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160814030018/http://pib.nic.in/newsite/PrintRelease.aspx?relid=145753|archive-date=14 August 2016|url-status=live}}</ref> are the other institutions of national importance. |
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==Educational Institutes in and Around the City== |
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== Defence and research == |
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===Universities=== |
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* Andhra University |
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* GITAM University |
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* AP Law University |
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* Indian Maritime University |
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* Indian Innovation University (Proposed) |
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=== Naval base === |
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[[File:INS Vikrant arrives at Visakapatanam for Milan 2024.jpg|thumbnail|INS Vikrant makes a grand debut at the scenic port of Visakhapatnam for MILAN 2024|alt=INS Vikrant in Vizag Port]] |
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* Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering - Madhuravada |
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Visakhapatnam is the headquarters of the [[Eastern Naval Command]], the [[Naval Science and Technological Laboratory]] (a [[Defence Research and Development Organisation|DRDO]] Lab), a Chief Quality Assurance Establishment (CQAE), an EFS office, a Naval Dockyard (established in 1949) and Naval Bases including [[INS Virbahu]], [[INS Karna]], [[INS Kalinga]], INS Samudrika, [[INS Satavahana]], and [[INS Dega]]. A new base at [[INS Varsha|INS Rambilli]] is being built on {{convert|5000|acre|km2}} with an investment of {{INRConvert|15|b|0|nolink=yes}}, as the first dedicated nuclear submarine base in India.<ref name=toi26m>{{cite news|title=India readies hi-tech naval base to keep eye on China|url=http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-03-26/india/38039841_1_akula-ii-ins-chakra-underground-nuclear-submarine-base|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130327133023/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2013-03-26/india/38039841_1_akula-ii-ins-chakra-underground-nuclear-submarine-base|url-status=dead|archive-date=27 March 2013|access-date=4 July 2013|newspaper=[[The Times of India]]|date=26 March 2013}}</ref><ref name=thu17s>{{cite news|title=Navy to have second base near Vizag|url=http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/17/stories/2006091718250100.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071204211016/http://www.hindu.com/2006/09/17/stories/2006091718250100.htm|url-status=dead|archive-date=4 December 2007|access-date=4 July 2013|newspaper=[[The Hindu]]|date=17 September 2006}}</ref> India's first nuclear submarine [[INS Arihant]] was launched in the Naval Dockyard, and [[Bharat Dynamics Limited|Bharat Dynamics]] has begun manufacturing torpedoes.<ref>{{Cite news|date=27 November 2017|title=Bharat Dynamics opens unit at Visakhapatnam|work=The Hindu BusinessLine|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/Bharat-Dynamics-opens-unit-at-Visakhapatnam/article20683522.ece|url-status=live|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402102335/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/companies/Bharat-Dynamics-opens-unit-at-Visakhapatnam/article20683522.ece|archive-date=2 April 2021}}</ref> The city also has presence of the [[Indian Coast Guard]] including ships and offices. Multiple naval training establishments, such as the Navy ShipWright School,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://indiannavy.nic.in/training/navy-training/shipwright-school|title=ShipWright School : Training : Indian Navy|work=indiannavy.nic.in|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150218105759/http://indiannavy.nic.in/training/navy-training/shipwright-school|archive-date=18 February 2015}}</ref> are also situated here. |
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* Anil Neerukonda Institute of Technology and Sciences(ANITS) - Sangivalasa |
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* Sanketika Vidhya Parishad College of Engineering (SAVE) - Pothinamallayya palem |
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* Chaitanya Engineering College(CEC) - Madhuravada |
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* Vignan Vidyalam - Duvvada |
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* Viswanadha Institute of Technology & Management(VITAM) - Anandapuram |
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* Avanthi Institute of Engineering & Technology |
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* Al-Aman College of Engineering - Anandapuram |
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* Pydah College of Engineering & Technology - Anandapuram |
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* Dadi Institute of Engineering & Technology - Anakapalle |
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* Vignan's Institute of Info. Technology - Gajuwaka |
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* Raghu Engineering College - Dakamarri |
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* Raghu Institute of Technology - Dakamarri |
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=== Research organisations === |
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===Poly technique Colleges=== |
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The [[Bhabha Atomic Research Centre]] (BARC) has its second research facility in the country (after Trombay) in Atchutapuram mandal in the district.<ref>{{Cite news|date=28 January 2011|title=Second campus in Vizag: BARC may begin work later this year|work=The Hindu BusinessLine|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-economy/Second-campus-in-Vizag-BARC-may-begin-work-later-this-year/article20067471.ece|url-status=live|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190809073100/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/todays-paper/tp-economy/Second-campus-in-Vizag-BARC-may-begin-work-later-this-year/article20067471.ece|archive-date=9 August 2019}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|last=Bandari|first=Pavan Kumar|date=4 December 2019|title=BARC invites applications to fill the vacancies at Visakhapatnam and Mumbai centres|work=The Hans India|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/hans/education-careers/barc-invites-applications-to-fill-the-vacancies-at-visakhapatnam-and-mumbai-centres-586990|url-status=live|access-date=2 April 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210402103451/https://www.thehansindia.com/hans/education-careers/barc-invites-applications-to-fill-the-vacancies-at-visakhapatnam-and-mumbai-centres-586990|archive-date=2 April 2021}}</ref> There are also offices of the [[National Institute of Oceanography, India|National Institute of Oceanography]] and the [[India Meteorological Department]]. |
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* Bullayya College |
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===Schools=== |
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* Visakha Tutorial College (School) - Rajendra nagar |
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* St francis High school - seethammadhara |
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* St Aloysius shcool |
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* Timpany - Asilametta |
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* Pollocks - Diamond park |
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* Visakha Valley School |
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* Fort Catholic Girls' School |
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* Kotak Salesian School |
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* St. Anns School ,NAD |
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* Vignan Vidyalayam Timmapuram |
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* St. Joseph's Girls High School |
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* St. John's Parish School |
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* Siva Sivani Public School |
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== Sports == |
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==Hospitals in and Around the City== |
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[[File:Vizagacavdca.jpg|thumb|right|Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy International Cricket Stadium at [[Pothinamallayya Palem|PM Palem]]|alt=major international stadium for cricket]] |
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* King George Hospital |
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[[File:ENC Cricket Team which won the VDCA Institutional League Cricket Championship 2015-16.jpg|thumb|ENC Cricket Team which won the VDCA Institutional League Cricket Championship 2015–16]] |
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* Queens NRI |
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[[Cricket]] is the most popular sport, followed by [[tennis]] and [[association football|football]]. Visakhapatnam is home to several local cricket teams participating in district and zonal matches. Gully cricket or [[backyard cricket]] (a form of cricket played in streets or parks) is a popular sport among local youth. Visakhapatnam co-hosted the 32nd [[National Games of India|National Games]] alongside [[Hyderabad]] in 2002. The city has seven cricket stadiums, which are used for [[Ranji Trophy]] matches; two of these stadiums have been used for [[One Day International|one day international]] (ODI) matches.<ref>{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2017-02-17 |title=YSR stadium not in the list of IPL match venues |url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/andhra-pradesh/2017/Feb/17/ysr-stadium-not-in-the-list-of-ipl-match-venues-1571555.html |access-date=2024-09-08 |website=The New Indian Express |language=en}}</ref> [[Indira Priyadarshini Stadium]], also known as the Municipal Corporation Stadium, hosted the first ODI match on 9 December 1988 and the last ODI on 3 April 2001. The stadium was discontinued in favour of the new [[Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium|Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy International Cricket Stadium]], [[Pothinamallayya Palem|PM Palem]].<ref>{{Cite news |date=2009-09-14 |title=Vizag stadium to be named after YSR |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/Vizag-stadium-to-be-named-after-YSR/article16881345.ece |access-date=2024-09-08 |work=The Hindu |language=en-IN |issn=0971-751X}}</ref> |
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* Seven Hills Hospital |
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* Simhadri Hospital |
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* Appollo Hospital |
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* CDR |
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Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy International Cricket Stadium is the home of [[Andhra Cricket Association]]. It regularly hosts [[Ranji Trophy]], One Day Internationals, and [[Test cricket|Test Internationals]]. The stadium is the home ground of [[Andhra cricket team]]. The stadium also hosted [[Indian Premier League|IPL]] matches as a neutral venue. It hosted its first test match against England beginning on 17 November 2016.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016-11-16 |title=Home strength set to be tested again |url=https://www.espncricinfo.com/series/england-tour-of-india-2016-17-1030195/india-vs-england-2nd-test-1034811/match-preview |access-date=2024-09-08 |website=ESPNcricinfo |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |date=1 February 2024 |title=Rohit Sharma's career-defining match and a trouncing of England: A look at India's Test record in Visakhapatnam |url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/cricket/rohit-sharmas-career-defining-match-and-a-trouncing-of-england-looking-back-at-previous-tests-in-visakhapatnam-101706757873778.html |access-date=9 September 2024 |website=Hindustan Times}}</ref> |
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==Religious Places in and Around the City== |
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Port Trust Golden Jubilee Stadium is the second largest stadium in Visakhapatnam, which has hosted Under-19 Youth Internationals. It also hosted the [[2014 Pro Kabaddi League season]] as the home ground for the [[Telugu Titans]].<ref>{{cite news |title=Pro Kabaddi League season |url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/pro-kabaddi-league/Kabaddi-Leagues-Vizag-franchise-Telugu-Titans-launched/articleshow/38619888.cms |work=The Times of India|date=18 July 2014 |access-date=18 July 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150731175431/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/pro-kabaddi-league/Kabaddi-Leagues-Vizag-franchise-Telugu-Titans-launched/articleshow/38619888.cms |archive-date=31 July 2015 |url-status=live}}</ref>[[Swarna Bharathi Indoor Stadium]], built by the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, is used for various indoor sports,<ref>{{cite web|title=sports indore stadium|url=http://www.gvmc.gov.in/gvmc/index.php/menu-styles/education/sports/|publisher=GVMC sports|access-date=3 September 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150824191835/http://www.gvmc.gov.in/gvmc/index.php/menu-styles/education/sports|archive-date=24 August 2015|url-status=dead}}</ref> and the GVMC Aqua Sports Complex, an aquatic centre for swimming and diving, is near the beach road.<ref>{{cite news |title=GVMC Aqua Sports Complex |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/cool-way-to-beat-the-heat/article3359670.ece |work=The Hindu|date=27 April 2012 |access-date=27 April 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140319002623/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/cool-way-to-beat-the-heat/article3359670.ece |archive-date=19 March 2014 |url-status=live|last1=Gopal |first1=B. Madhu }}</ref> |
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* Simhachala kshetram - Lord Naramisha - near gopalapatnam |
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* Kanaka mahaalakshmi Gudi - Godess Lakshmi - near old town |
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* Madhava dhaara - Lord Madhaaveshwara - near muralinagar |
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* Sagara Durga Gudi - Godess Durga - on Dolphins nose mountain |
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* Shankara Matam - Saint Shankaracharya -near dwaraka nagar |
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* Lalitha Gudi - Godess Lalitha -near lalitha nagar |
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* SampathVinayaka Gudi - Lord Ganesha - near asilametta |
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* [[Worldwide Faith Missions]] Church and headquarters, Bananapalem Village |
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* Dayal Nagar - Radha Soami Religious movement |
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[[Surfing]] activities are common at the Rushikonda beach.<ref>{{cite news |title=Rushikonda a big draw for cricketers |url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Rushikonda-a-big-draw-for-cricketers/article16644480.ece |work=The Hindu|date=17 November 2016 |access-date=16 December 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161221172516/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Visakhapatnam/Rushikonda-a-big-draw-for-cricketers/article16644480.ece |archive-date=21 December 2016 |url-status=live}}</ref> [[Scuba diving]] at [[Chintapalle, Visakhapatnam district|Chintapalli]] in the scenic city has been attracting tourists from all over.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.yovizag.com/vizag-scuba-diving-destination/|title=Vizag emerging as a major diving destination in India. Here's why!|date=23 August 2018|work=Visakhapatnam News, Vizag Breaking News, Andhra Pradesh, India News, Entertainment, Movies, Magazine & More...|access-date=12 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180912172556/https://www.yovizag.com/vizag-scuba-diving-destination/|archive-date=12 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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==Steel Plant Township== |
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{{Main|Ukkunagaram}} |
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[[Image:Temple1 VSP.jpg|250px|thumb|right|Jagannath temple in [[Ukkunagaram]]]] |
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== Media == |
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The beautiful and well planned township for the employees of the Visakhapatnam steel plant is called [[Ukkunagaram]] (''ukku'' in Telugu for steel,''nagaram'' in Telugu for town). |
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The Telugu dailies publishers in the city are [[Eenadu]], [[ABN Andhra Jyothi|Andhra Jyothy]], [[Sakshi (media group)|Sakshi]], [[Andhra Bhoomi]], [[Andhra Prabha]], [[Vaartha]], [[Suryaa (newspaper)|Suryaa]], [[Prajasakti]] and [[Visalaandhra]]. Apart from the local language, there are also English papers such as [[The Hindu]], [[The Times of India]], [[Deccan Chronicle]], [[Business Line|The Hindu Business Line]], [[The New Indian Express]] and [[The Hans India]]. |
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=== FM stations === |
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The design of the Township itself is state-of-the-art. The designers followed the Roman Circular design for the layout of homes and roads to keep the distances equal between any two points within the township. |
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* [[Radio City (Indian radio station)|Radio City]] – 91.1 – Telugu/Hindi |
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* [[Big 92.7 FM]] – 92.7 – Telugu/Hindi |
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* [[Red FM 93.5|Red FM]] – 93.5 – Telugu/Hindi |
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* [[Radio Mirchi]] – 98.3 – Telugu |
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*AIR Primary – 101.6 – Telugu<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.themediaant.com/radio?languages=Telugu|title=Telugu FM Radio Channel Advertising|website=themediaant.com|access-date=12 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180912131542/https://www.themediaant.com/radio?languages=Telugu|archive-date=12 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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* [[AIR FM Rainbow]] – 102.0 – Telugu |
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*Visakha FM – 105.6 – Telugu |
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*[[Gyan Vani]] – 106.4 – Telugu/English/Hindi<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://fmstations.bharatiyamobile.com/Indian-FM-Stations-Statewise.php?state=Andhra+Pradesh&location=Visakhapatnam|title=FM Radio Stations in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh|website=fmstations.bharatiyamobile.com|access-date=12 September 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180912131207/https://fmstations.bharatiyamobile.com/Indian-FM-Stations-Statewise.php?state=Andhra+Pradesh&location=Visakhapatnam|archive-date=12 September 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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===DRM=== |
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There are 12 sectors in the Township, oldest of them being sectors 1, 2 and 3, and Sector 7 which is the exclusive domain of the directors and the chairman's homes,and the newest being Sector 12 which have CD type housing units and are available for senior officers |
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* Air Vizag - 918 kHz, 2 stations<ref>{{Citation |title=An awareness Demo on DRM car Radio for BHEL Manager Sri Venugopal Vizag on 25-12-2023 |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZNkzto2cXG0 |access-date=2023-12-26 |language=}}</ref> |
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. Other sectors came into being as the plant's staffing matured. On the average, each sectore consists of about 300 housing units, which vary from multi-storied quarters (3 floors) to single family homes. There are also bungalows exclusively for the directors of the plant. There are 5 types of housing units viz. A Type,B,C,D & director's bungalow. |
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== Notable people == |
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Sector 1 used to house the Russians who came to erect and commission the first blast furnace "Godavari", The RMHP, Sinter, and Coke Oven Batteries I & II. |
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[[File:Sir CV Raman.JPG|thumb|150px|[[C. V. Raman|Sir C. V. Raman]], [[Nobel Laureate]] (1930) and [[Physicist]] known for his discovery of [[Raman scattering|Raman Effect]].]] |
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[[File:Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan 1967 stamp of India.jpg|thumb|150px|[[Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan]], the [[List of vice presidents of India|first vice-president]] of India on a postal stamp of 1967.]] |
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* [[Alluri Sitarama Raju]] |
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* [[Gurajada Apparao]] |
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* [[Concordia Merrel]] |
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* [[Edward Hay Mackenzie Elliot]]<ref name=Bio>{{cite web|title=Edward Hay Mackenzie Elliot |url=http://genealogy.links.org/links-cgi/readged?/home/ben/camilla-genealogy/current+c-elliot97665+2-2-0-1-0|publisher=genealogy.links.org|accessdate=19 July 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Sir Walter Elliot |url=http://genealogy.links.org/links-cgi/readged?/home/ben/camilla-genealogy/current+c-elliott96978+2-2-0-1-0|publisher=genealogy.links.org|accessdate=15 July 2011}}</ref> |
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* [[C. V. Raman|Sir C. V. Raman]] |
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* [[Gam Malludora]] |
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* [[Cattamanchi Ramalinga Reddy]] |
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* [[Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan]] |
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* [[Tenneti Viswanadham]] |
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* [[Sri Sri (writer)|Sri Sri]] |
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* [[Aarudhra]] |
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* [[Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry]] |
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* [[Beesetti Venkata Satyavathi|Beesetti venkata satyavathi]] |
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* [[Peela Govinda Satyanarayana]] |
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* [[Malla Vijaya Prasad|Malla Vijaya prasad]] |
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* [[Malla Venkata Manikyalu|Malla venkata manikyalu]] |
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* [[Ramana Gogula]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.deccanchronicle.com/140920/nation-current-affairs/article/vizag-be-mega-city-says-well-known-vizagite-ramana-gogula|title=Vizag to be a mega city, says well-known Vizagite, Ramana Gogula|date=20 September 2014|access-date=13 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180413190850/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/140920/nation-current-affairs/article/vizag-be-mega-city-says-well-known-vizagite-ramana-gogula|archive-date=13 April 2018|url-status=live}}</ref> |
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* [[P. T. Srinivasa Iyengar]] |
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* [[Kotcherlakota Rangadhama Rao]] |
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* [[Nookala Chinna Satyanarayana]] |
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* [[Sri Kantha Krishnamacharyulu]] |
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* [[Devika Rani]] |
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* [[L. V. Revanth]] |
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* [[Venugopal Rao (cricketer)|Venugopal Rao]] |
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*[[Gode Venkata Juggarow]] |
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== See also == |
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The Township is located in forest belt starting at the Valleys of Araku through Elamanchili to Narsipatnam. The township comes under the mandate of the Town Administration. The continued afforestation efforts of the management has ensured a green and pollution-free environment and thereby creating a unique ecosystem in itself. The township has well kept roads, regulated traffic. The township also has all market places, parks, clubs, sports facilities exclusively for the employees and their dependents. |
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* [[List of most populous cities in India]] |
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* [[List of municipal corporations in India]] |
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* [[List of tourist attractions and events in Visakhapatnam]] |
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* [[List of neighbourhoods in Visakhapatnam]] |
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* [[List of Cities in Andhra Pradesh]] |
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==Notes== |
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Big Kanithi Balancing reservoir provides water for the captive consumption of the plant and the township alike, and sits between the Township and the NH5. It draws its water from a special canal built exclusively for it from the River Yeleru, a tributary of the major river [[Godavari River|Godavari]]. |
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{{reflist|group=fn}} |
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== References == |
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The road that leads from the plant plaza main gate into the township actually travels ahead as a bypass to the busy NH5 and skips Anakapalli directly to Elamanchili and Tuni, cutting almost 30 km on the road route from Visakhapatnam to Vijayawada. |
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{{reflist}} |
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== Further reading == |
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==Members of Parliament== |
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* {{Cite news|url = https://www.deccanchronicle.com/140912/nation-current-affairs/article/dmrc-prepare-report-vizag-metro-rail-project|title = DMRC to prepare report on Vizag metro rail|date = 12 September 2014|access-date = 19 September 2014}}* |
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* Daggubati Purandeshwari (INC) – Visakhapatnam |
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* Sabbam Hari (INC) – Anakapalli |
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* V Kishore Chandra Deo (INC) – Araku |
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== External links == |
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== Members of Legislative Assembly == |
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{{Commons category|Visakhapatnam}} |
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{{Wikivoyage|Visakhapatnam}} |
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* {{Cite EB1911|wstitle=Vizagapatam|volume=28|pages=164–165}} This contains a detailed description of the town and district under British rule. |
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* [http://www.vuda.gov.in/ Official website of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority] |
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{{Navboxes |
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* Paderu(ST): [[Pasupuleti Balaraju]] (INC) |
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|title = Articles related to Visakhapatnam |
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* Visakhapatnam South: Dronamraju Srinivas (INC) |
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|list = |
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* Visakhapatnam East: Rama Krishna Babu (TDP) |
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{{Visakhapatnam |left}} |
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{{Navboxes |
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* Visakhapatnam West: Malla Vijaya Prasad (INC) |
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|title = [[File:Gnome-globe.svg|25px]]{{nbsp}}Geographic locale |
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* Pendurthi: Panchakarla Ramesh (PRP) |
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|list = |
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* Gajuwaka: Chintalapudi Venkataramayya (PRP) |
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'''[[Geographic coordinate system|Lat. <small>and</small> Long.]] {{Coord|17.704167|N|83.297778|E|display=inline}}''' |
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}} |
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== Administrators == |
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{{Neighbourhoods of Visakhapatnam}} |
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The current [[District collector|Collector]] of the district is Lav Agarwal while the Joint Collector is Pola Bhaskar. The Additional Joint Collector is S. Satyanarayana. |
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{{Visakhapatnam district}} |
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==References== |
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{{reflist|colwidth=30em}} |
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==External links== |
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{{Commons category|Visakhapatnam}} |
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*[http://www.vuda.org/ Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority (VUDA)] |
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*[http://www.visakhapatnammunicipalcorporation.org/ Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation] |
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*[http://www.gvmc.gov.in/ Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal corporation (GVMC)] |
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*{{dmoz|Regional/Asia/India/Andhra_Pradesh/Localities/Visakhapatnam/}} |
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*{{Wikitravel|Visakhapatnam}} |
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{{Andhra Pradesh}} |
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Latest revision as of 17:52, 8 January 2025
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|
Visakhapatnam
Vizag, Vizagapatam, Visakha, Waltair[1] | |
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Nickname(s): The City of Destiny The Jewel of the East Coast | |
Coordinates: 17°42′15″N 83°17′52″E / 17.70417°N 83.29778°E | |
Country | India |
State | Andhra Pradesh |
Districts | Visakhapatnam, Anakapalli |
Incorporated (town) | 1865 |
Incorporated (city) | 1979 |
Government | |
• Type | Municipal Corporation |
• Body | GVMC, VMRDA |
• Mayor | Golagani Hari Venkata Kumari[2] (YSRCP) |
Area | |
640 km2 (250 sq mi) | |
• Metro | 7,328.86 km2 (2,829.69 sq mi) |
Population (2011)[10] | |
2,091,811 | |
• Estimate (2021)[11] | 2,358,412 |
• Rank | 17th |
• Density | 3,300/km2 (8,500/sq mi) |
Demonym | Vizagite |
Time zone | UTC+5:30 (IST) |
PIN | 530 0XX, 531 1XX[12] |
Telephone code | +91-891 |
Vehicle registration | AP-31, AP-32, AP-33, AP-34 , AP-39 |
Official languages | Telugu |
Nominal GDP(2023-24) (Note: The following GDP Constitutes only for GVMC limits) | ₹129,571 crore (US$15 billion)[13] |
Contribution to state as a % of GDP | 9% |
Website |
Visakhapatnam (/vɪˌsɑːkəˈpʌtnəm/; formerly known as Vizagapatam,[16] also known as Vizag, Viśākha or Waltair[1][17][18] is the largest and most populous metropolitan city in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh.[19] It is between the Eastern Ghats and the coast of the Bay of Bengal.[20][21] It is the second largest city on the east coast of India after Chennai, and the fourth largest in South India. It is one of the four smart cities of Andhra Pradesh selected under the Smart Cities Mission[22] and is the headquarters of Visakhapatnam district.[23] Vizag is popularly knows as shipbuilding capital of India due to presence of multiple shipyard such as Hindustan Shipyard, Naval Dockyard and being the central naval command of the east coast.
Visakhapatnam's history dates back to the 6th century BCE.[24] The city was ruled by the Andhra Satavahanas, Vengi, the Pallava and Eastern Ganga dynasties.[25][26] Visakhapatnam was an ancient port city which had trade relations with the Middle East and Rome.[27] Ships in Visakhapatnam were anchored at open roads and loaded with cargo transported from the shoreside using small masula boats.[28] A reference to a Vizagapatnam merchant is available in the inscriptions of Bheemeswara temple (1068 CE) in the East Godavari District.[29] During the 12th century CE, Vizagapatnam was a fortified mercantile town managed by a guild.[30] European powers eventually established trade operations in the city, and by the end of the 18th century it had come under French colonial rule.[31][32] Control of the city passed to the East India Company in 1804 and it remained under British colonial rule until Indian independence in 1947.[32]
The city is home to some reputed Central and State educational institutions of the state, including Andhra University (AU), Andhra Medical College (AMC), Indian Institute of Management (IIM), Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy (IIPE), Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University (DSNLU), Indian Maritime University (IMU), and the National Institute of Oceanography among others. Visakhapatnam serves as the headquarters for the Indian Navy's Eastern Naval Command.[33] The city also serves as the zonal headquarters of South Coast Railway Zone (SCoR). The city is also home to the oldest shipyard and the only natural harbour on the east coast of India.[34] Visakhapatnam Port is the fifth-busiest cargo port in India. The city is a major tourist destination and is known for its beaches, ancient Buddhist sites, and the natural environment of the surrounding Eastern Ghats.[35] It is nicknamed as the "City of Destiny" and the "Jewel of the East Coast".[23] According to the Swachh Survekshan rankings of 2020, it is the ninth cleanest city in India among cities with a population of more than 1 million.[36] In 2020, it was a finalist in the Living and Inclusion category of the World Smart City Awards.[37][38]
Etymology
The local belief behind the name of the city-states there was a king in the 4th century, who on his pilgrimage halted at Lawson's Bay and built a temple dedicated to Vaisakha, which was submerged under the sea, but the name of the temple became attached to the settlement.[39] Other historical names are, Kulotungapatnam, named by the Chola King Kulottunga I; Ishakapatnam, based on a Muslim Saint, Syed Ali Madani (Ishak Madani).[39][40] During the East India Company rule in India, the city was known with the name, Vizagapatnam.[41] The suburb Waltair is another such name which was derived from the name the British colonial government used.[23] "Vizagapatnam" could also be spelled Visakhapatnam in the West European alphabet. The name was popularly shortened to Vizag and this form was in use right from the earliest days of British colonial rule in the district in the late eighteenth century.[42] It is still referred to as Vizag by locals too, however since independence, people have reverted to calling it by its Indian name of Visakhapatnam.[39]
History
Visakhapatnam's history stretches back to the 6th century BCE and the city finds mention in ancient texts such as the 4th century BCE writings of Pāṇini and Katyayana. Historically considered part of the Kalinga region,[31][32] it was ruled by the Vengi kingdom and the Pallava and Eastern Ganga dynasties during medieval times.[25] Archaeological records suggest that the present city was built around the 11th and 12th centuries C.E. by the Chola dynasty king Kulothunga I. Control over the city fluctuated between the Chola dynasty of Tamil Nadu and the Gajapati Kingdom of Odisha[31][32] until its conquest by the Vijayanagara Empire in the 15th century.[25] European powers eventually set up trading interests in the city and Visakhapatnam came under French rule at the end of the 18th century.[31][32]
The city was ruled by the Andhra Kings of Vengi and Pallavas. The city is named after Sri Visakha Varma. Legend has it that Radha and Viśakha were born on the same day and were equally beautiful. Sri Visakka Sakhi is the second most important gopi of the eight main gopis. She carries messages between Radha and Krishna and is the most expert Gopi messenger. Residents believe that an Andhra king built a temple to pay homage to his family deity Viśakha. This is now inundated under seawater near R K Beach. Another theory is that it is named after a woman disciple of Buddha named Viśakha. Later it was ruled by Qutb Shahis (1571–1674), Kingdom of Jeypore (1535–1571) and (1674–1711), Mughal Empire (1711–1724), Nizam (1724–1757) and France (1757–1765) before being captured by the British in 1765. European powers eventually established trading operations in the city and Visakhapatnam came under French colonial rule at the end of the 18th century.[31][32]
The British East India Company captured Visakhapatnam after the 1804 Battle of Vizagapatnam and it remained under British colonial rule until Indian independence in 1947 which was a part of the Northern Circars.
Buddhist influence
Hindu texts state that during the fifth century BCE, the Visakhapatnam region was part of Kalinga territory, which extended to the Godavari river. Relics found in the area also prove the existence of a Buddhist empire in the region. Kalinga later lost the territory to King Ashoka in the bloodiest battle of its time, which prompted Ashoka to embrace Buddhism. Ancient Buddhist sites, recently excavated, are scattered across Visakhapatnam, reflecting the region's Buddhist legacy.[43]
Pavurallakonda
Pavurallakonda ("pigeon hill") is a hillock west of Bhimli, about 24 km (15 mi) from Visakhapatnam. The Buddhist settlement found here is estimated to date back from the first century BCE to the second century CE. On the hillock (which overlooks the coastline) are 16 rock-cut cisterns for collecting rainwater. Gopalapatnam, on the Tandava River, is a village surrounded by brick stupas, viharas, pottery and other Buddhist artefacts.[44]
Sankaram
In 1907 British archaeologist Alexander Rea unearthed Sankaram, a 2,000-year-old Buddhist site. The name "Śankaram" derives from the Sangharama (temple or monastery). Located 40 km (25 mi) south of Visakhapatnam, it is known locally as Bojjannakonda and is a significant Buddhist site in Andhra Pradesh. The three major schools of Buddhism (Hinayana, Mahayana and Vajrayana) flourished here. The complex is known for its monolithic stupas, rock-cut caves and brick structures. The primary stupa was initially carved out of rock and covered with bricks. Excavations yielded historic pottery and Satavahana coins from the first century CE. At Lingalakonda, there are also rock-cut monolithic stupas in rows spread over the hill.[45] The vihara, a monastery, was active for about 1,000 years.[45]
Nearby is another Buddhist site, Bojjannakonda, with several images of the Buddha carved on the rock face of the caves. At Ligalametta there are hundreds of rock-cut monolithic stupas in rows, spread across the hill. Among other Buddhist attractions are a relic casket, three chaitya halls, votive platforms, stupas and Vajrayana sculptures.[46]
Bavikonda
Bavikonda is an important Buddhist heritage site located on a hill about 15 km (9.3 mi), northeast of Visakhapatnam city. Here the Buddhist habitation is noticed on a 16 ha flat terraced area. The Hinayana school of Buddhism was practised at the monastery between the 3rd century B.C. and the 3rd century A.D. Bavikonda has remains of an entire Buddhist complex, comprising 26 structures belonging to three phases. A piece of bone stored in an urn recovered here is believed to belong to the mortal remains of the Buddha. The word Bavikonda in Telugu means "a hill of wells". Fitting its name, Bavikonda is a hill with wells for the collection of rainwater. It is located 15 km (9.3 mi) from Visakhapatnam and is a significant Buddhist site.
Excavation carried out from 1982 to 1987 revealed a Buddhist establishment including a mahachaitya, also referred to as a grand stupa, embedded with relic caskets,[47] a large Vihara (monastery) complex, numerous votive stupas, a stone-pillared congregation and rectangular halls and a refectory. Artifacts recovered from the site include Roman and Satavahana coins and pottery dating from the third century BCE to the second century CE. A significant finding was a piece of bone (with a large quantity of ash) in an urn, which is believed to be the remains of the Buddha. The Bavikonda site is considered one of the oldest Buddhist sites in Asia. It is a reminder of the Buddhist civilisation which once existed in southern India, and also reminiscent of Borobudur in Indonesia.[48]
Thotlakonda
About 16 km (9.9 mi) from Visakhapatnam is Thotlakonda, a Buddhist complex situated on top of a hill. The Buddhist complex on the Mangamaripeta hilltop, locally known as Totlakonda, lies about 16 km (9.9 mi) from Visakhapatnam on Visakhapatnam-Bheemili Beach Road. After its discovery (during an aerial survey), the Government of Andhra Pradesh declared the 48 ha site as a protected monument in 1978. Excavations from 1988 to 1992 exposed structural remains and artefacts, classified as Religious, Secular, and Civil. These structures include the Stupa, Chaityagrihas, pillared congregation halls, bhandagaras, refectory (bhojanasala), drainage, and stone pathways. The site covers an area of 120 acres (49 hectares), and has been declared a protected area by the government of Andhra Pradesh. Excavations have revealed three kinds of structural remains: religious, secular, and civil. Structures include a mahastupa, sixteen votive stupas, a stone-pillared congregation hall, eleven rock-cut cisterns, well-paved stone pathways, an apsidal chaitya-griha, three round chaitgya-grihas, two votive platforms, ten viharas and a kitchen complex with three halls and a refectory (dining hall). Apart from the structures, Buddhist treasures excavated include nine Satavahana and five Roman silver coins, terracotta tiles, stucco decorative pieces, sculptured panels, miniature stupa models in stone, Buddha padas depicted with ashtamangala symbols (i.e. the eight auspicious symbols of Swastika, Shrivasta, Nandhyavarta, Vardhamanaka, Bhadrasana, Kalasha, Minyugala and Darpan) and early pottery.[49]
Later history
The territory of Visakhapatnam then came under the Andhra rulers of Vengi, and Chalukyas and Pallavas ruled the land. The region was ruled by the Eastern Ganga king and the Gajapati kings from the 10th century to the 16th century CE. Based on archaeological evidence, the Prabhakar and the Eastern Ganga Kings built temples in the city in the 11th and 12th centuries. In the late 16th century, it came under the direct rule of the Suryavanshi king, Maharaja Vishwanath Dev Gajapati of Jeypore. However, from 1571 to 1674 it fell under the control and administration of the Qutb Shahi kings of Golconda who appointed a governor or Faujdar to collect taxes in the region. This Faujdar governed the area from Srikakulam or Chicacole as it was then known. In 1674, the Maharaja of Jeypore, Vishwambhar Dev defeated the Foujdar and claimed sovereignty from the deteriorating Qutb Shahis.[50] Vishwambhar is also said to have defeated the Dutch East India Company who allegedly abducted locals, mostly fishermen living by the sea-shore. Later his descendant, Maharaja Raghunath Krishna Dev defeated the Seer Lascer appointed by the Mughals and maintained his rule over the region. Therefore, Visakhapatnam remained a part of the Kingdom of Jeypore until the death of Maharaja Ram Chandra Dev I in 1711 after which it was taken over by the Nizam of Hyderabad who could only govern it for a few decades before transferring it to the British.[51] Even in the colonial era, the kings of Jeypore were referred to as the Maharaja or Raja of Vizagapatnam.[52] European merchants from France, Holland and the East India Company used the natural port to export tobacco, paddy, coal, iron ore, ivory, muslin and other textile products. The British developed Visakhapatnam as a prominent harbour on the east coast. The old port in Jalari Peta was built and used by the Maharaja of Jeypore who also owned several ships. During the First World War, Maharaja Vikram Dev III sent his fleet of ships to aid the British and later donated the port to the British government of Madras.[50] It is now a fish market.
Local legend tells that an Andhra king, on his way to Benares, rested at Visakhapatnam and was so enchanted by its beauty that he ordered a temple to be built in honour of his family deity, Viśakha. Archaeological sources, however, reveal that the temple was probably built between the 11th and 12th centuries by the Cholas. A shipping merchant, Sankarayya Chetty, built one of the mandapams (pillared halls) of the temple. Although it no longer exists (possibly washed away about 100 years ago by a cyclonic storm), elderly residents of Visakhapatnam remember visits to the ancient shrine by their grandparents (although author Ganapatiraju Atchuta Rama Raju denies this).[53]
During the 18th century Visakhapatnam was part of the Northern Circars, a region comprising coastal Andhra and southern coastal Odisha which was first under French control and later British. Visakhapatnam became a district in the Madras Presidency of British India. In September 1804, British and French squadrons fought the Battle of Vizagapatam near the harbour. After India's independence, it was the largest district in the country and was subsequently divided into the districts of Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam.
Part of the city is known by its colonial British name, Waltair; during the colonial era, the city's hub was the Waltair railway station and a part of the city is still called Waltair.
On 7 May 2020, the city suffered an industrial accident when a polymer plant leaked toxic styrene gas, as it restarted operations after the Coronavirus lockdown. This gas leak killed at least eleven people, and drew comparisons to the Bhopal disaster.[54]
Geography
The city is situated between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal.[20] The city coordinates lies between 17.7041 N and 83.2977 E.[14][15] The city's area is 682 km2. The average elevation is 45 metres.[55] Visakhpatnam is situated in Coastal Andhra Region.[56]
The city is surrounded by the Simhachalam Hill Range to the west, the Yarada Hills to the southeast, and Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary to the northwest. The hills play an important role in Visakhapatnam's ecological environment and cover over 621.52 km2.[57]
Hills in Visakhapatnam
- Eastern Ghats
- Simhachalam Hills
- Yarada Hills
- Erra Matti Dibbalu
- Dolphin's Nose Hills
- Kailasagiri Hills
Climate
Visakhapatnam has a tropical wet and dry climate (Köppen Aw).[15] The annual mean temperatures range between 24.7–30.6 °C (76–87 °F), with the maximum in May and the minimum in January; the minimum temperatures ranges between 17–27 °C (63–81 °F). The highest maximum temperature ever recorded was 42.0 °C (107.6 °F) in 1978, and the lowest was 10.5 °C (51 °F) on 6 January 1962.[58][59] It receives rainfall from the South-west and North-east monsoons[15] and the average annual rainfall recorded is 1,118.8 mm (44.05 in).[60] In October 2014 Cyclone Hudhud made landfall near Visakhapatnam.[61]
Climate data for Visakhapatnam Airport (1991–2020, extremes 1901–present) | |||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
Record high °C (°F) | 34.8 (94.6) |
38.4 (101.1) |
41.0 (105.8) |
40.6 (105.1) |
45.0 (113.0) |
45.4 (113.7) |
41.4 (106.5) |
38.8 (101.8) |
38.2 (100.8) |
37.2 (99.0) |
35.0 (95.0) |
34.0 (93.2) |
45.4 (113.7) |
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) | 29.7 (85.5) |
31.9 (89.4) |
34.6 (94.3) |
35.7 (96.3) |
36.7 (98.1) |
35.4 (95.7) |
33.6 (92.5) |
33.2 (91.8) |
33.2 (91.8) |
32.6 (90.7) |
31.1 (88.0) |
29.9 (85.8) |
33.1 (91.6) |
Daily mean °C (°F) | 24.5 (76.1) |
25.8 (78.4) |
28.0 (82.4) |
29.4 (84.9) |
30.7 (87.3) |
30.2 (86.4) |
29.0 (84.2) |
29.0 (84.2) |
28.9 (84.0) |
28.5 (83.3) |
27.0 (80.6) |
25.1 (77.2) |
28.0 (82.4) |
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) | 18.3 (64.9) |
20.4 (68.7) |
23.7 (74.7) |
26.3 (79.3) |
28.0 (82.4) |
27.8 (82.0) |
26.8 (80.2) |
26.5 (79.7) |
26.1 (79.0) |
25.1 (77.2) |
22.0 (71.6) |
18.7 (65.7) |
24.1 (75.4) |
Record low °C (°F) | 10.5 (50.9) |
12.8 (55.0) |
14.4 (57.9) |
18.3 (64.9) |
20.0 (68.0) |
21.1 (70.0) |
21.3 (70.3) |
21.1 (70.0) |
17.5 (63.5) |
17.6 (63.7) |
12.9 (55.2) |
11.3 (52.3) |
10.5 (50.9) |
Average rainfall mm (inches) | 8.3 (0.33) |
9.5 (0.37) |
6.6 (0.26) |
24.7 (0.97) |
67.3 (2.65) |
131.1 (5.16) |
121.6 (4.79) |
148.6 (5.85) |
207.9 (8.19) |
232.2 (9.14) |
87.5 (3.44) |
9.3 (0.37) |
1,054.5 (41.52) |
Average rainy days | 0.8 | 0.9 | 0.6 | 1.5 | 3.4 | 6.5 | 8.0 | 8.3 | 10.6 | 8.4 | 3.0 | 0.7 | 52.6 |
Average relative humidity (%) (at 17:30 IST) | 64 | 61 | 62 | 66 | 66 | 68 | 71 | 73 | 76 | 73 | 67 | 62 | 67 |
Mean monthly sunshine hours | 272.8 | 271.2 | 272.8 | 264.0 | 251.1 | 135.0 | 130.2 | 133.3 | 168.0 | 229.4 | 228.0 | 269.7 | 2,625.5 |
Mean daily sunshine hours | 8.8 | 9.6 | 8.8 | 8.8 | 8.1 | 4.5 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 5.6 | 7.4 | 7.6 | 8.7 | 7.2 |
Average ultraviolet index | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 12 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 11 |
Source 1: India Meteorological Department (sun 1971–2000)[62][63][64][65][66] | |||||||||||||
Source 2: Tokyo Climate Center (mean temperatures 1991–2020)[67] Weather Atlas[68] |
Climate data for Visakhapatnam (Dolphin's Nose) 1981–2010, extremes 1970–2005) | |||||||||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | Year |
Record high °C (°F) | 30.7 (87.3) |
35.0 (95.0) |
36.2 (97.2) |
36.1 (97.0) |
42.8 (109.0) |
39.8 (103.6) |
39.8 (103.6) |
36.2 (97.2) |
36.6 (97.9) |
34.5 (94.1) |
32.4 (90.3) |
31.4 (88.5) |
42.8 (109.0) |
Mean daily maximum °C (°F) | 27.2 (81.0) |
26.9 (80.4) |
30.6 (87.1) |
31.5 (88.7) |
32.6 (90.7) |
32.2 (90.0) |
30.6 (87.1) |
30.5 (86.9) |
30.6 (87.1) |
30.2 (86.4) |
28.8 (83.8) |
27.4 (81.3) |
30.1 (86.2) |
Mean daily minimum °C (°F) | 19.8 (67.6) |
21.4 (70.5) |
23.5 (74.3) |
25.0 (77.0) |
26.1 (79.0) |
26.0 (78.8) |
25.0 (77.0) |
24.8 (76.6) |
24.8 (76.6) |
23.8 (74.8) |
21.8 (71.2) |
19.8 (67.6) |
23.5 (74.3) |
Record low °C (°F) | 15.6 (60.1) |
17.7 (63.9) |
17.4 (63.3) |
17.9 (64.2) |
18.5 (65.3) |
18.4 (65.1) |
18.4 (65.1) |
19.6 (67.3) |
18.8 (65.8) |
19.4 (66.9) |
16.3 (61.3) |
14.1 (57.4) |
14.1 (57.4) |
Average rainfall mm (inches) | 14.3 (0.56) |
28.9 (1.14) |
14.6 (0.57) |
25.0 (0.98) |
66.0 (2.60) |
107.5 (4.23) |
131.8 (5.19) |
132.6 (5.22) |
161.6 (6.36) |
270.4 (10.65) |
105.1 (4.14) |
3.5 (0.14) |
1,061.2 (41.78) |
Average rainy days | 1.0 | 1.1 | 0.4 | 1.4 | 3.4 | 5.4 | 7.8 | 7.4 | 8.5 | 8.3 | 4.0 | 0.7 | 49.3 |
Average relative humidity (%) (at 8:30 IST) | 78 | 76 | 75 | 78 | 77 | 79 | 83 | 83 | 82 | 79 | 73 | 72 | 76 |
Source: India Meteorological Department[62][63] |
Vishakhapatnam has been ranked 22nd best “National Clean Air City” (under Category 1 >10L Population cities) in India.[69]
Demographics
As of 2011[update] census of India, Visakhapatnam had a population of 1,728,128, of which males were 873,599 and females were 854,529 – a sex ratio of 978 females per 1000 males. The population density was 18,480/km2 (47,900/sq mi). There were 164,129 children in the age group of 0–6 years, with 84,298 boys and 79,831 girls – a sex ratio was 947 girls per 1000 boys. The average literacy rate stood at 81.79% with a total of 1,279,137 literates, of which 688,678 were males and 590,459 were females.[70][71] It is ranked 122 in the list of fastest-growing cities in the world.[72] The total slum population covers 44.61% of the total population which implies 770,971 people reside in slums.[73]
The recent estimates of city's population are 2,358,412 in 2022.[74]
Language and religion
Telugu is the official and the most predominantly spoken language by native speakers.[76][77] Two dialects of Telugu are spoken by the people, the common dialect and the Uttarandhra (North Eastern Andhra) dialect. The latter is mainly spoken by the people who originally belong to the districts of Vizianagaram and Srikakulam.[78] A cosmopolitan population of Visakhapatnam comprises Tamils,[79][80] Malayalis,[81][82] Sindhis,[83] Kannadigas,[84][85] Odias,[86] Bengalis and Bihari migrants from other regions of India.[87][88] There is also an Anglo-Indian community, regarded as the first cosmopolitans of the city.[89]
According to the 2011 census, Telugu is the most spoken language in the city, with 92.13% speakers, followed by Urdu (2.77%), Hindi (2.19%), Odia (0.92%).[75]
Hinduism is practised by the majority of its citizens, followed by Islam and Christianity. The area practised Buddhism in the ancient past, as evidenced by the many Buddhist sangharamas in the outlying areas but the population of Buddhists has waned, with approximately 0.03% population in the entire city based on the recent census.[91]
Administration
Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) is the civic body that oversees the civic needs of the city.[92] One of the earliest municipalities in this area, the Vizag (Visakhapatnam) Municipality was set up in 1858 to fulfill the basic infrastructural needs of the people. It was converted into a municipal corporation in 1979. Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation came into existence on 21 November 2005 after the release of G.O by Govt of Andhra Pradesh.[93]
It has a jurisdictional area of 681.96 km2 (263.31 sq mi), which includes the merged municipalities of Gajuwaka, Anakapalle and Bheemunipatnam.[94][95] Although as per the 2011 census, it is 513.61 km2 (198.31 sq mi) mentioned in the district town amenities handbook of Andhra Pradesh, portraying a rise in area covered by the municipal corporation in these years[96]
The municipal corporation of Vishakapatnam is governed by three acts. First is the State Municipal Act, the Andhra Pradesh Municipalities Act 1965, the Andhra Pradesh Municipal Corporations 1994 Act, as well as an act specific to the Vishakapatnam Municipal Corporation Act 1979.[97][98]
The city is divided into 9 zones, In a recent agglomeration of five Bheemili villages with a population of 19,000 into the GVMC jurisdiction the number of wards has increased to 98.[99]
Municipal elections and civic government officials
The previous Municipal Elections were held in 2007. After a larger gap of 13 years, the elections were scheduled to happen on 23 March 2020.[100] The results of the latest municipal elections for 145 municipalities and 10 municipal corporations across Andhra Pradesh were held on 30 March and the results were announced on Monday. Of the 92 municipalities in Seemandhra, TDP won 65 municipalities and YSR Congress nineteen. Of the seven municipal corporations, TDP bagged five and YSR Congress two.[100]
The City governance structure of GVMC consists of an elected wing headed by the Mayor an administrative wing headed by the Administrative Commissioner, 4 Additional commissioners, and 8 zonal commissioners. Mayor elections were planned to be carried out in March 2020 but details are yet to be declared.[100] The present municipal commissioner of the city is G Srijana. The municipal commissioner looks after the administration of the municipal corporation.[101]
The executive wing has departments for Engineering, Public health, revenue, town planning, horticulture, education, finance, general administration, projects, IT E-governance and Urban Community Development.[102]
The organisational structure of the GVMC includes standing committees, ward committees and special committees, The corporation wards committees must be of not less than ten wards, special committees are appointed by the corporation out of their own body, and a standing committee consisting of chairpersons from all wards.[103]
Municipal budget
The GVMC estimated a budget of ₹4,171 crore (equivalent to ₹49 billion or US$570 million in 2023) for the financial year 2020–21. It shows an increase of ₹337 crore (equivalent to ₹419 crore or US$49 million in 2023) compared to the last budget for 2019–20.[104] The Revenue Department of GVMC generates its revenue by levying of Property Tax, Vacant Land Tax and it is the collection and dealing with Remunerative Enterprises, Water Charges, etc.[105]
Masterplan
In 2019, the Planning wing of the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) started preparing a 'perspective plan 2051' which is a 30-year strategic plan, apart from another 'master plan 2041'. The 'perspective plan' is expected to include provisions for resource conservation, regional growth, economic growth and transportation strategies, coastal zone regulations, disaster management strategies, population forecast and distribution, a broad structure plan, and an implementation plan.[106]
The 'master plan' proposes a growth strategy with transit-oriented development strategies, expansion of satellite towns such as Vizianagaram, Anakapalli, Bheemili, etc., theme-based economic nodes along the proposed metro-rail corridor, bus-based public transport, tourism destination development, a comprehensive rural agenda and resilient city planning.[106]
Yet another proposal includes a transit corridor connecting Bhogapuram Airport with the existing business centres of the city and the industrial clusters in Atchutapuram under the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor.[106]
District Administration
The district area is 11,161 km2 (4,309 sq mi). The Sub-Division is divided into Mandals. Visakhapatnam District Consists of 43 mandals, each headed by a Tahsildar.[107] It also has one Municipal Corporation and two Municipalities. There are four revenue divisions in the district.[108] A Revenue division is headed by Revenue Divisional Officer in the rank of Sub–Collector in the cadre of I.A.S. or a Deputy Collector. He is the Sub Divisional Magistrate having jurisdiction over his division.[109]
Law and order
Law and order in the city are dealt by Visakhapatnam City Police, equipped with a Police Commissionerate with the Commissioner of Police as the head and with assisted by three deputy commissioners for different zones.[110] The current City Police Commissioner is Mr. Manish Kumar Sinha.[111] Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) is an urban planning agency that covers the GVMC and its suburbs covering, two corporations, one municipality, one nagar panchayat and 895 villages from two districts of Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram.[112][95] The expanded area of the city, Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region extends to 4,873 km2 (1,881 sq mi) with a population of 50,18,000 (Western: 5,018,000) and is under the administration of Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority.[113][114][115]
The District & Sessions Court is located in Vishakapatnam City and it also includes family courts.
Legislative Assembly and Parliament
The city has eight legislative assembly constituencies within its limits. In the legislative elections Ganta Srinivasa Rao was elected to the assembly from Bheemili Assembly constituency. Vamsi Krishna Srinivas was elected from Visakhapatnam South. For Visakhapatnam East, Velagapudi Ramakrishna Babu was elected. For Visakhapatnam North Penmetsa Vishnu Kumar Raju and for Visakhapatnam West P. G. V. R. Naidu was elected. For the Gajuwaka Assembly, Palla Srinivasa Rao and for the Pendurthi Assembly Panchakarla Ramesh Babu were elected. For the Anakapalle constituency Konathala Ramakrishna was elected.[116] Out of the eight constituencies Anakapalli and Pendurthi fall under the Anakapalli Lok Sabha Constituency, who's Member of Parliament is C. M. Ramesh.[117] The current Lok Sabha Member of Parliament Vishakhapatnam is Mathukumilli Bharat.[118]
Civic utilities
The Andhra Pradesh Eastern Power Distribution Company Limited (APEPDCL) supplies power to the city of Visakhapatnam.[119] The fire services in the city is carried out by the state fire department, the Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Response and Fire Department, Eastern region (AP Fire).[120]
The city water supply is essentially stored in the three service reservoirs – Town Service Reservoir, Dwarakanagar; High-Level Service Reservoir, T.B. Road, Uplands and Circuit House Reservoir, Waltair Uplands. The city is divided into 14 blocks according to contours and each block is served by separate reservoirs. 35 reservoirs are serving the different segments of the system. Domestic water supply is mainly through public taps and house service connections.[121]
There are about 2072 bore wells as groundwater sources. As per a report from 2015, "GVMC relies mostly on surface water for its raw water supply and serves 54.9 per cent of the city through household-level piped connections. There is a supply gap of almost 66 million litres per day (MLD)[122]
As of 2019[update], only 50 per cent of the city has access to underground drainage. This is after the city grew over the last decade and Bheemili and Anakapalli among other peripheral villages came under the GVMC's jurisdiction. The GVMC has taken up a project to extend the underground drainage network with a budget of ₹10 crore (equivalent to ₹12 crore or US$1.5 million in 2023). The new project will provide underground drainage access to an estimated 8,000 households. The network will be built under the command area of pumping stations at Venkata Puram and Vimannagar and its vicinity.[123]
In the year 2015, the municipal corporation generated 920 tons of waste per day. Waste generated from all the wards has been disposed of at the dumpsite in Kapuluppada since 2007.[124]
Economy
Visakhapatnam is one of the 100 fastest growing cities in the world.[125] The usual seafood exporting capacity of the harbour is 115,000 tonnes (127,000 short tons)[126] and during the FY 2015, it topped seafood exports in terms of value among other ports.[127] Visakhapatnam Port and Gangavaram Port are the two ports of the city and the former one topped charts which handled 60,000,000 tonnes (66,000,000 short tons) of cargo during the financial year 2016–17.[128] The Hindustan Shipyard undertakes building and repairing of Naval fleet.[129]
Information technology
The growth in the IT sector in recent times has boosted the local economy.[130] In 2016–17, the IT industry in Visakhapatnam witnessed an increase in its turnover which recorded as ₹54 billion (US$630 million) with more than 350 firms,[131] in contrast to 2013–14 figures of ₹1,450 crore (equivalent to ₹25 billion or US$290 million in 2023).[132] Sunrise Startup Village, an incubation centre[133] and Fintech Valley Vizag were established to promote the city as a global fintech capital in the Andhra Pradesh state.[134] Millennium IT Towers 1 was inaugurated by the then Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu Naidu on 15 February 2019 and Millennium IT Towers 2 is in pipeline to promote fintech investments in the city.[135]
There are many national and multi-national IT/ITes and fintech firms such as IBM, Wipro, Tech Mahindra, Kenexa, Infotech, Miracle Software Systems, Conduent, Cyient, Paytm, Concentrix, Sutherland, HSBC, etc. Some more investments are in line, like Google X, Lalith Ahuja's ANSR Consulting, Franklin Templeton, Innova Solutions, etc. at Fintech Valley in the city.[136][137] The Brandix India Apparel City is the largest textile park in the country and holds the record for employing more than 15,000 women employees at a single location.[138]
Other Industries
The Jawaharlal Nehru Pharma City (JNPC) developed at Parawada near Visakhapatnam in 2,400 acres (9.7 km2) has major pharma companies like, Hospira, Mylan, Eisai, Reddy's Lab, Aurobindo Pharma, Torrent pharma, Divis Lab, etc.[139][140][141] Andhra Pradesh Medtech Zone Limited, is the India's first Ultra Modern Medical Equipment Manufacturing & Testing Facility, open to Manufacturers & Innovators.[142]
The prevalence of ferroalloy plants is due to the availability of manganese ore near Visakhapatnam. Aluminium refineries such as AnRak Aluminium and Jindal Aluminium are developing because of the bauxite reserves around the city.[143] Visakhapatnam is a part of the Petroleum, Chemical and Petrochemical Investment Region (PCPIR), proposed between Visakhapatnam and Kakinada. The PCPIR is expected to generate 1.2 million jobs and require a projected investment of ₹400 billion (US$4.7 billion).[144] NTPC's 2,000MW Simhadri Super Thermal Power Station is undergoing an expansion with the construction of an addition supercritical unit that will generate between 660-1,000 MW.[145] Hindujas has begun construction of a 1,070 MW thermal power plant in Visakhapatnam district at a cost of US$1.25 billion.[146]
Cityscape
Neighbourhoods
Over the years, Visakhapatnam has turned from a fishing village into a commercial city with busy streets. Most notable areas of the city include urban areas like Allipuram, Arilova, Asilmetta, Dwaraka Nagar, Gajuwaka, Gopalapatnam, Jagadamba Centre, Lawsons Bay Colony, Pendurthi, Maddilapalem, Madhurawada, MVP Colony, Rushikonda, Seethammadhara, Siripuram and semi-rural suburbs such as Anakapalle, Bheemunipatnam, Duvvada, Parawada, Kommadi and Thagarapuvalasa .
Landmarks
Visakhapatnam is one of the main tourism destinations in the state of Andhra Pradesh. The city is known for its beaches, caves and the Eastern Ghats as well as wildlife sanctuaries. About 30% of the city is covered with greenery.[147]
Major landmarks in the city include Dolphin's Nose, lighthouse, Kailasagiri, Beach Road, VMRDA Park, Visakha Museum and Matsyadarsini (an aquarium). The INS Kursura Submarine Museum and Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) aircraft TU 142 Aircraft Museum opposite to each other is the only one of its kind in the world,[failed verification] conceptualising the hunted and hunter of the wars.[148] Indira Gandhi Zoological Park in the city has variety of wildlife species. Erra Matti Dibbalu (Red sand dunes) are situated between Visakhapatnam and Bheemunipatnam are one of the geo-heritage sites in the country. This tourist spot is now protected and preserved as a heritage site.[149] D Ramanaidu Film Studio is one of the film shooting destinations in the city.[150] Telugu Samskruthika Niketanam on atop Kailasagiri was developed by World Telugu Federation and Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority,[151] Adding one more feather to its cap, Visakhapatnam is home to India's tallest musical fountain opened in the Vuda City Central Park. Oscillating vertically at 360 degrees, the fountain dances to the tune of digital music in different colours.[152][153]
Beaches along the coastline of the Bay of Bengal include RK Beach, Rushikonda Beach, and Mangamaripeta Beach. Others are Yarada, Bheemili, Lawson's Bay, Tenneti, Sagar Nagar, Thotlakonda and Gangavaram beaches.[154] Borra Caves are caves discovered by British geologist William King in 1807.[155] Tyda (an Eco-tourism project), Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary under Andhra Pradesh Forest Department are wildlife conservation sites near the city.[156]
Culture
The city embraces rich religious diversity, with Hinduism being the majority religion, alongside Islam, Christianity, and Buddhism. Telugu is the predominantly spoken language, reflecting the city's cosmopolitan culture with a significant presence of Odia, Hindi, Tamil, and Malayalam speakers. Visakhapatnam offers a blend of South Indian and Western cuisines, with popular dishes like Moori Mixture and bamboo chicken of Araku Valley. The city celebrates various festivals including Makar Sankranti, Ugadi, Vinayaka Chavithi, Diwali, and Dasara. Cricket is the most favoured sport, with facilities like the Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA–VDCA Cricket Stadium. Additionally, the city is home to attractions like the Telugu Samskruthika Niketanam Museum, Submarine Museum, TUV, and Harrier aircraft museums.
Poets
Some of the notable poets from the city include Sri Sri, Gollapudi Maruti Rao, Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry.
Religious sites
Some of the religious sites are also of great importance like Simhachalam temple of Lord Narasimha 16 km (9.9 mi) north of the city,[157][158] and Sri Kanaka Maha Lakshmi Temple. Archaeological excavations of Buddhist shrines and sites, including Thotlakonda, Bavikonda, Pavuralakonda and Panchadarla, revealed Buddhist dominance in this area.[159]
Transport
The city commuters prefer city buses and auto rickshaw as the primary mode of transport, followed by two-wheelers and cars.[160] Road and rail are preferred for long-distance commuting and are supported by Dwaraka bus station and Visakhapatnam Junction railway station respectively.[161][162] It also has sea and air travel infrastructure such as, Visakhapatnam Port[163] and Visakhapatnam Airport.[164]
The APSRTC operates city, district, and inter-state bus services from Dwaraka bus station.[165] Over 600 city buses operate over 150 routes, in addition to Bus Rapid Transit System in two corridors of Pendurthi and Simhachalam.[160]: 21 A planned Integrated Bus Terminal Complex would be built at Maddilapalem.[166] Apart from buses, there are about 25,000 auto rickshaws plying on the city roads which provide intermediate public transport.[160]: 22
Visakhapatnam is the headquarters of South Coast Railway zone of Indian railways. Visakhapatnam railway station is as an A1 station[167] with the highest gross revenue in the Waltair railway division.[168] It serves an average of 20,000–25,000 passengers daily and may rise to 40,000 during festivals.[162] It has the country's largest diesel locomotive shed with a capacity of 206.[169] Visakhapatnam Metro is a planned metro rail project.[170]
As of 2013[update], the percentage of transport mode shares in the city are, 18% buses, 9% autos, 15% two-wheelers, 2% cars and 55% non-motorised transport (bicycles and pedestrians).[160]: 23 The total road network accounts for a total length of 2,007.10 km (1,247.15 mi).[171] NH16, a major highway and a part of the Golden Quadrilateral system bypasses the city.
Visakhapatnam Airport had served a total of 2,815,205 passengers in 2018, an increase of 16.8% from the previous year. It handled a total of 23,264 aircraft during that year.
Visakhapatnam Port is one of 13 major ports in India and the only major port of Andhra Pradesh. It is India's second-largest port by volume of cargo handled. It is located on the east coast of India and is located midway between the Chennai and Kolkata Ports. Cruise shipping is operational between Visakhapatnam and Andaman and Nicobar islands.[172][173]
Education
Primary and secondary school education is imparted by government, aided and private schools, under the School Education Department of the state.[174][175] As per the school information report for the academic year 2016–17, urban Visakhapatnam had 1,44,268 (Western: 144,268) students[176] enrolled in 434 schools.[177] The Central Board of Secondary Education, Secondary School Certificate or the Indian Certificate of Secondary Education are the different types of syllabus followed by different schools. The medium of instruction followed by schools are English and Telugu.[178] The St. Aloysius Anglo Indian Boys High School is the oldest school in the city to have established in the year 1847.[179] The Visakhapatnam District Central Library is supported by the government and is located at Dwaraka Nagar.[180][181]
There are tens of junior colleges under Government, Andhra Pradesh Social Welfare Residential and private undertakings.[182] Andhra University is the only autonomous college approved under Universities Grant Commission scheme.[183] Mrs. A. V. N. College is one of the oldest educational institution in the city.[155]: 35
The GITAM University and the Gayatri Vidya Parishad College of Engineering are other technical education institutions in the city. Visakhapatnam is also home to Damodaram Sanjivayya National Law University (DSNLU), which is the National Law University for the state of Andhra Pradesh. DSNLU takes entrance through Common Law Admission Test and ranks 15th by order of establishment among the 17 National Law Universities. The city is due to get India's first packaging park[184] with an Indian Institute of Packaging, IIP[185] and BITS Pilani & Birla International School under the aegis of Sarala Birla Academy.[186]
The Indian Maritime University (IMU) was established as a central university by the government of India by an act of Parliament (the Indian Maritime University Act 2008). IMU is poised to play a role in the development of human resources for the maritime sector. The city also has the National Institute of Oceanography. The Indian Institute of Management,[187] Indian Institute of Petroleum and Energy[188] are the other institutions of national importance.
Defence and research
Naval base
Visakhapatnam is the headquarters of the Eastern Naval Command, the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (a DRDO Lab), a Chief Quality Assurance Establishment (CQAE), an EFS office, a Naval Dockyard (established in 1949) and Naval Bases including INS Virbahu, INS Karna, INS Kalinga, INS Samudrika, INS Satavahana, and INS Dega. A new base at INS Rambilli is being built on 5,000 acres (20 km2) with an investment of ₹15 billion (US$176 million), as the first dedicated nuclear submarine base in India.[189][190] India's first nuclear submarine INS Arihant was launched in the Naval Dockyard, and Bharat Dynamics has begun manufacturing torpedoes.[191] The city also has presence of the Indian Coast Guard including ships and offices. Multiple naval training establishments, such as the Navy ShipWright School,[192] are also situated here.
Research organisations
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) has its second research facility in the country (after Trombay) in Atchutapuram mandal in the district.[193][194] There are also offices of the National Institute of Oceanography and the India Meteorological Department.
Sports
Cricket is the most popular sport, followed by tennis and football. Visakhapatnam is home to several local cricket teams participating in district and zonal matches. Gully cricket or backyard cricket (a form of cricket played in streets or parks) is a popular sport among local youth. Visakhapatnam co-hosted the 32nd National Games alongside Hyderabad in 2002. The city has seven cricket stadiums, which are used for Ranji Trophy matches; two of these stadiums have been used for one day international (ODI) matches.[195] Indira Priyadarshini Stadium, also known as the Municipal Corporation Stadium, hosted the first ODI match on 9 December 1988 and the last ODI on 3 April 2001. The stadium was discontinued in favour of the new Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy International Cricket Stadium, PM Palem.[196]
Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy International Cricket Stadium is the home of Andhra Cricket Association. It regularly hosts Ranji Trophy, One Day Internationals, and Test Internationals. The stadium is the home ground of Andhra cricket team. The stadium also hosted IPL matches as a neutral venue. It hosted its first test match against England beginning on 17 November 2016.[197][198]
Port Trust Golden Jubilee Stadium is the second largest stadium in Visakhapatnam, which has hosted Under-19 Youth Internationals. It also hosted the 2014 Pro Kabaddi League season as the home ground for the Telugu Titans.[199]Swarna Bharathi Indoor Stadium, built by the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation, is used for various indoor sports,[200] and the GVMC Aqua Sports Complex, an aquatic centre for swimming and diving, is near the beach road.[201]
Surfing activities are common at the Rushikonda beach.[202] Scuba diving at Chintapalli in the scenic city has been attracting tourists from all over.[203]
Media
The Telugu dailies publishers in the city are Eenadu, Andhra Jyothy, Sakshi, Andhra Bhoomi, Andhra Prabha, Vaartha, Suryaa, Prajasakti and Visalaandhra. Apart from the local language, there are also English papers such as The Hindu, The Times of India, Deccan Chronicle, The Hindu Business Line, The New Indian Express and The Hans India.
FM stations
- Radio City – 91.1 – Telugu/Hindi
- Big 92.7 FM – 92.7 – Telugu/Hindi
- Red FM – 93.5 – Telugu/Hindi
- Radio Mirchi – 98.3 – Telugu
- AIR Primary – 101.6 – Telugu[204]
- AIR FM Rainbow – 102.0 – Telugu
- Visakha FM – 105.6 – Telugu
- Gyan Vani – 106.4 – Telugu/English/Hindi[205]
DRM
- Air Vizag - 918 kHz, 2 stations[206]
Notable people
- Alluri Sitarama Raju
- Gurajada Apparao
- Concordia Merrel
- Edward Hay Mackenzie Elliot[207][208]
- Sir C. V. Raman
- Gam Malludora
- Cattamanchi Ramalinga Reddy
- Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
- Tenneti Viswanadham
- Sri Sri
- Aarudhra
- Sirivennela Seetharama Sastry
- Beesetti venkata satyavathi
- Peela Govinda Satyanarayana
- Malla Vijaya prasad
- Malla venkata manikyalu
- Ramana Gogula[209]
- P. T. Srinivasa Iyengar
- Kotcherlakota Rangadhama Rao
- Nookala Chinna Satyanarayana
- Sri Kantha Krishnamacharyulu
- Devika Rani
- L. V. Revanth
- Venugopal Rao
- Gode Venkata Juggarow
See also
- List of most populous cities in India
- List of municipal corporations in India
- List of tourist attractions and events in Visakhapatnam
- List of neighbourhoods in Visakhapatnam
- List of Cities in Andhra Pradesh
Notes
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Further reading
- "DMRC to prepare report on Vizag metro rail". 12 September 2014. Retrieved 19 September 2014.*
External links
- Chisholm, Hugh, ed. (1911). . Encyclopædia Britannica. Vol. 28 (11th ed.). Cambridge University Press. pp. 164–165. This contains a detailed description of the town and district under British rule.
- Official website of Visakhapatnam Urban Development Authority