NH 516B is a vital spur road located in the Visakhapatnam and Vizianagaram districts. It serves as a critical link between the bustling coastal plains and the interior high-altitude regions.

The Route at a Glance
The highway spans approximately 40.5 kilometers, connecting two major highway networks:

Start Point: Junction with NH 16 near Pendurthi (Visakhapatnam).

Major Hubs: Passes through Kothavalasa and Srungavarapukota (S. Kota).

End Point: Terminates at its junction with NH 516E near Bowdara.

The Upgrade: A ₹782 Crore Transformation
As of 2025-2026, the highway is undergoing a massive upgrade. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has sanctioned a project worth approximately ₹782.91 crore to transform this stretch into a 2/4-lane highway with paved shoulders.

Key Infrastructure Highlights
Bypass Roads: To ease congestion in crowded town centers, three major bypasses are being constructed, including a significant 11 km bypass near Kothavalasa and a 6 km bypass at S. Kota.

Safety & Speed: The design is optimized for a speed of 80 km/h, featuring improved geometry to eliminate dangerous curves that previously caused frequent accidents.

Connectivity: The road will provide a seamless link to the Green National Highway Corridor Project (NH 516E), creating a high-speed loop for the entire region.

Why This Project Matters
The development of NH 516B isn't just about asphalt and concrete; it's about economic and social upliftment.

Tourism Boost: This is the primary gateway for tourists heading from Vizag to Araku Valley and the Borra Caves. The upgrade will significantly reduce travel time for weekend explorers.

Industrial Growth: Improved connectivity to Kothavalasa—a growing industrial hub—will attract more agro-based and mineral industries.

Faster Logistics: Farmers in the Vizianagaram and Parvathipuram Manyam districts will be able to transport produce to city markets faster, reducing spoilage and increasing profits.

Emergency Access: The wider, smoother road ensures that emergency medical services and students can reach Visakhapatnam's facilities much more reliably.

Current Status (2026 Update)
Following the bidding process in 2025, Tracks & Towers Infratech was declared the L1 bidder for the construction. Work is currently in the active execution phase, with the aim of completing the project within a 24-month window. Travelers are advised to expect some diversions around S. Kota and Kothavalasa as the new bypasses take shape.

Looking Ahead
Once completed, NH 516B will serve as a lifeline for North Coastal Andhra. Whether you are a daily commuter, a logistics provider, or a tourist looking for a smooth drive to the hills, this highway is set to make your journey safer and faster.

Would you like me to create a detailed travel itinerary for the tourist spots accessible via NH 516B?

NH 516B Highway Upgrade Overview This video provides a visual overview of the ongoing 4-lane upgradation project and the specific route details of NH 516B.