SRIKAKULAM: The Andhra Pradesh government has approved the construction of an open model flyover at Ranasthalam in Srikakulam district. This move will ease the troubles of people traveling this busy route. Three years ago, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) laid a six-lane road from Ichchapuram to Etcherla but did not build the flyover at Ranasthalam. Local traders opposed it fearing business disruption, as Ranasthalam is a key junction in the district. Additionally, a bypass road was not constructed due to farmers demanding high compensation for their land. Vizianagaram MP Kalisetti Appala Naidu stepped in to resolve the issue. He held talks with NHAI officials in New Delhi and secured approval for the open model flyover. The MP said, “People can move easily from one side to the other in the open model flyover. A closed flyover would have hampered trade.” NHAI will spend around ₹250 crore on the flyover and widening the road on both sides. Work is progressing fast and the project is expected to be completed by the end of 2026.