Srikakulam’s Glow-Up: New Divider and Street Lights Inaugurated on Peddapadu Road
SRIKAKULAM – In a significant move toward transforming Srikakulam into a “Model City,” state and central leaders recently gathered to inaugurate a series of infrastructure upgrades, most notably the newly completed divider, plantation, and central street lighting on the stretch from Ramalakshmana Koodali to Peddapadu Junction.
The inauguration ceremony, held on Sunday, March 22, 2026, saw the participation of high-profile dignitaries including Union Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu, State Minister Kinjarapu Atchannaidu, and local MLA Gondu Shankar. The project is part of a broader urban expansion initiative aimed at improving safety, aesthetics, and traffic flow in the growing outskirts of the city.
Key Highlights of the Project
The Peddapadu road, which serves as a vital artery connecting the main town to the Narasannapeta route, has undergone a dramatic facelift:
Central Lighting: The installation of high-intensity LED street lights along the center of the road is expected to significantly reduce nighttime accidents and curb local crime, providing a safer environment for women and the elderly.
Modern Divider & Greenery: A new central divider has been constructed to streamline traffic. As part of the “Green Srikakulam” initiative, the divider includes a plantation zone to reduce pollution and enhance the scenic entrance to the city.
Road Widening: The stretch has been widened to accommodate the increasing volume of heavy vehicles and commuters traveling toward the newer residential layouts like Surya Hightech City and Gutta Sri Saketh County.
A Vision for a “Model City”
During the inspection of the works, Minister Atchannaidu emphasized that these developments are not just about infrastructure but about quality of life. He noted that the collaboration between the Central and State governments—under the NDA coalition—has accelerated long-pending projects in the district.
”Our goal is to ensure that every resident of Srikakulam feels the progress. From the new ‘Pink Toilets’ for women’s dignity to the well-lit roads of Peddapadu, we are building a city that is both modern and safe,” the Minister stated.
Impact on Local Residents
For years, the Peddapadu stretch was known for its dim lighting and chaotic traffic. The new upgrades have been met with enthusiasm from local commuters and real estate developers alike. With the city expanding toward Peddapadu, these amenities are expected to boost property values and encourage more residents to move toward the outskirts, effectively decongesting the town center.
The event concluded with a call to the citizens of Srikakulam to take responsibility for these public facilities, ensuring the greenery is maintained and the city remains “pollution-free.”
