Summer relief for commuters, GVMC sets up green shade at RTC Complex junction

As a part of the Summer Action Plan, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has launched a unique initiative to provide relief to commuters struggling with the scorching summer heat in the city. The civic body’s engineering wing has installed a specially designed green shade structure called ‘Haritha Ashrayam’ on a pilot basis at the busy RTC Complex junction.

The canopy was erected over the traffic lane to provide protection to drivers, pedestrians and commuters waiting at signals during afternoon rush hours. Such a model had previously been implemented in the Assilmetta region.

According to engineering wing officials, considering the strong winds and sudden rains frequently experienced in the city, the authorities designed the structure keeping safety and durability in mind. Special precautions have been taken to ensure that the canopy remains intact and does not get damaged or blown away in high winds. To further increase comfort levels, GVMC also arranged for water sprinkling underneath the structure, creating a cooling effect and helping reduce heat for passengers passing through the intersection.

The initiative is already attracting public attention; Many passengers appreciate the efforts made by civic authorities to ensure comfort during the challenging summer season.

Satyanarayana Raju, chief engineer of GVMC, said that the RTC Complex model is being closely monitored.

“If the structure is successful, it will be conveyed to the GVMC chief and we plan to replicate the same model at many other important junctions this summer,” he said.