GVMC takes up extensive city beautification works ahead of IFR, MILAN events

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has taken up extensive city beautification works in view of the upcoming International Fleet Review (IFR), International City Parade, and MILAN naval exercises.

The International Fleet Review (IFR) is being hosted in the city, after a gap of 10 years, while the MILAN exercise is taking place after four years, drawing global attention to the port city.

As part of the preparations, the GVMC is spending ₹17.5 crore on beautification works, as per GVMC Superintending Engineer Satyanarayana Raju. He said that the major works include laying of BT roads across key stretches, especially in areas with VIP movement, and programme venues connected to the Navy events.

“In addition, large-scale painting works, installation of artefacts, development and repair of footpaths, improvement of greenery, beautification of central medians, and enhancement of street lights are being carried out,” he said, adding that tourist destinations and museums are also being spruced up as foreign delegates are expected to visit these sites.

Beach Road, the main venue for the International City Parade, has been given a complete makeover. Sculptures and statues along the stretch have been repainted, greenery developed, and footpaths freshly painted. Seating arrangements for spectators have already been completed, while a dais is being set up along the beach. A massive tent has been erected at YMCA to accommodate parade participants. Barricading works are progressing at a pace, while parking facilities are being arranged at multiple locations. The entire stretch is being brought under CCTV surveillence.

The event will be attended by President Droupadi Murmu, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, delegates from several countries and naval representatives from across the world.

District Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad has conducted multiple review meetings to monitor the progress of the arrangements, and separate committees have been formed to look after different works. Meanwhile, tight security arrangements are being put in place under the supervision of Commissioner of Police Shankabratha Bagchi. The entire Beach Road stretch has been brought under police control, with bomb squads and dog squads conducting intensive checks at seating areas and the parade dais.

It may be also noted that fishing activity has been restricted from February 14 to 21, 2026, on a certain stretch where Naval programmes will be held.