The potential relocation of the busy Anandapuram flower market and major road-widening proposals figured prominently during a ground-level inspection by the district administration on Saturday. However, no final decisions have been taken so far.

Visakhapatnam District Collector M. Abhishikth Kishore, accompanied by officials from the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA), Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC), and Roads and Buildings Department, inspected the congested junction to identify bottlenecks and explore ways to improve connectivity to the upcoming Bhogapuram International Airport.

Following the site visit, officials held a detailed review meeting at the airport site to examine preliminary proposals and planning frameworks aimed at developing the junction into a more efficient gateway for airport-bound traffic.

“Yes, shifting the flower market was discussed during the review meeting, but no final decision has been taken. It is only a proposal,” an official who participated in Saturday’s inspection told The Hindu on condition of anonymity.

The Anandapuram flower market, an important commercial hub for traders from north Andhra Pradesh, frequently figures in administrative discussions as heavy footfall and vehicular movement contribute to daily traffic congestion at the intersecting highways.

Officials reviewed the feasibility of relocating market operations as an interim traffic-management measure. One proposal under consideration is to shift vendors to a nearby 95-100 cent site originally earmarked for a Rythu Bazaar. Revenue officials also discussed the possibility of utilising adjacent land belonging to the SC Corporation to accommodate additional space requirements.

The inspection built upon preliminary structural concepts discussed earlier this month in the presence of Bheemunipatnam MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao.

Long-term proposals focus on consolidating nearby land parcels to develop an integrated market complex. If finalised, the facility would include separate vending zones for vegetable traders, organised parking areas, and cold-storage infrastructure. Reclaiming the existing market area for road expansion remains a key proposal aimed at improving turning space for heavy vehicles and road geometry at the junction.

The junction is expected to witness a sharp rise in traffic movement from Visakhapatnam, Vizianagaram, Srikakulam, and Anakapalli districts after the airport becomes operational.

Engineering teams presented tentative master plans focusing on how widened approach roads and traffic corridors could be integrated to ensure seamless future connectivity to the international airport.

Officials also reviewed preliminary alignment plans for a proposed 400-metre flyover and its extended approach lanes.

The Collector directed officials of the NHAI, VMRDA, and Revenue Department to maintain close coordination while examining the proposals.