The decades-long dream of North Andhra residents is finally nearing reality. The Central government is preparing to announce the appointed day for the new railway zone headquartered in Visakhapatnam. According to railway sources, the Ministry aims to operationalise the new zone from April 1, marking a major administrative restructuring within Indian Railways.
Officials indicate that the bifurcation process of the South Central Railway has reached its final stage. Once implemented, the restructuring will redefine divisional boundaries and streamline railway administration in Andhra Pradesh.
Restructuring of South Central Railway
At present, the South Central Railway functions with six divisions under the Secunderabad headquarters. After the new zone comes into force, Secunderabad, Hyderabad, and Nanded divisions will remain under South Central Railway.
Meanwhile, Vijayawada, Guntur, and Guntakal divisions will merge with portions of the East Coast Railway to form the new South Coast Railway Zone, headquartered in Visakhapatnam. This move will significantly boost railway administration in the coastal Andhra and North Andhra regions.
Administrative Preparations in the Final Phase
With only a few weeks left for April 1, discussions are underway at the Railway Board regarding technical feasibility. Officials are assessing whether the remaining time is sufficient to complete the transition smoothly. However, sources suggest that clarity on operational readiness will emerge soon. Authorities may issue the official notification on the appointed day before the end of this month.
Notably, the comprehensive project report detailing divisional bifurcation, boundary adjustments, revenue allocation, expenditure planning, and train operations reached the Railway Board nearly nine months ago.
Background: Promise Under AP Reorganisation Act
The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act included a provision to establish a new railway zone with Visakhapatnam as headquarters. The then UPA government had promised the formation of this zone to address regional aspirations. Later, the Union Cabinet approved the new zone in February 2025, giving administrative momentum to the long-pending demand.
Following approval, the Railway Board began appointing the General Manager and senior departmental heads in a phased manner.
Key Route and Boundary Changes
Several route adjustments will accompany the restructuring. The 108-kilometre Raichur–Wadi section under the Guntakal division will remain with the Secunderabad division. Additionally, the 142-kilometre Vishnupuram–Pagidipalli and Vishnupuram–Janpahad routes will shift to Secunderabad’s control.
On the other hand, the 46-kilometre Motumarru–Kondapalli stretch will move from the Secunderabad division to the Vijayawada division. These changes aim to improve operational efficiency and regional coordination.
A Major Boost for North Andhra
The formation of the Visakhapatnam-based railway zone represents more than administrative reform. It reflects the fulfilment of a long-standing regional aspiration. Once operational, the South Coast Railway Zone is expected to enhance infrastructure development, improve service efficiency, and accelerate economic growth in North Andhra.
With the appointed day announcement expected soon, residents now await official confirmation of a historic milestone in the state’s railway history.
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