New Tourism Icon
Skywalk Landmark Rises Over Visakhapatnam: Visakhapatnam has unveiled the country’s longest cantilever glass skywalk, adding a signature attraction to the scenic Kailasagiri hilltop. Rising at an elevation of nearly 862 feet, the structure offers expansive views of the Bay of Bengal, the city skyline, and the surrounding green ridges. It strengthens Visakhapatnam’s growing identity as a coastal tourism hub.
Static GK fact: Kailasagiri is one of Andhra Pradesh’s most visited hill parks and features the iconic Shiva–Parvati statue, a major travel landmark.
Launch and Development
The project was inaugurated by the VMRDA, marking a key milestone in the city’s tourism development roadmap. Built in about eight months, the skywalk forms part of a broader effort to upgrade public recreational facilities in Visakhapatnam. Officials noted that the bridge is expected to anchor new tourism flows and enhance the Kailasagiri visitor circuit.
Engineering Strength
Engineers designed the attraction using toughened high-strength glass, capable of absorbing heavy pressure and impact. The skywalk is built to withstand wind speeds up to 250 km/h, reflecting safety improvements drawn from past cyclone experiences along the Andhra coast. Although structurally capable of supporting over 100 people, entry is restricted to 40 visitors at a time for safety and better crowd management.
Static GK Tip: India’s eastern coastline frequently faces high-intensity cyclones due to the warm waters of the Bay of Bengal, making wind-resistant construction essential in coastal states.
Visitor Experience
A detailed topographic survey helped identify the optimal spot on Kailasagiri to ensure wide panoramic visibility. The cantilever design allows the structure to extend outward without vertical supports, giving visitors unobstructed downward and forward views. The transparent walkway aims to create a thrill-based yet safe experience for tourists, combining adventure with scenic immersion.
Design and Safety Integration
The structure integrates multi-layered safety features including anti-skid surfaces, high-grade railing systems, and real-time monitoring by VMRDA staff. The glass panels are reinforced to maintain clarity while resisting environmental stress. Officials emphasize that both aesthetic appeal and public safety guided every stage of the project.
Boost to Visakhapatnam Tourism
The skywalk is expected to attract both domestic and international visitors, supporting the city’s strategy to expand tourism revenue. Kailasagiri already draws significant footfall due to its ropeway, viewpoints, and landscaped spaces, and the new structure adds a flagship feature that strengthens the hilltop’s tourism prominence.
Static GK fact: Visakhapatnam is home to India’s oldest shipyard, Hindustan Shipyard Limited, making it a unique blend of industrial and tourism significance.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Skywalk Landmark Rises Over Visakhapatnam:
| Topic | Detail |
| Skywalk location | Kailasagiri hilltop, Visakhapatnam |
| Elevation | Around 862 feet above ground |
| Type of structure | Cantilever glass skywalk |
| Capacity | Entry capped at 40 visitors |
| Engineering feature | Withstands winds up to 250 km/h |
| Material used | High-strength toughened glass |
| Project authority | VMRDA |
| Construction timeline | Completed in about eight months |
| Tourism impact | Strengthens Kailasagiri visitor circuit |
| Geographic significance | Offers views of Bay of Bengal and hill ranges |
