VMRDA Unveils ₹203 Crore Coastal Erosion Mitigation Plan for Visakhapatnam
Officials from the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) presented a comprehensive coastal erosion mitigation project on Thursday, with an estimated cost of ₹203 crore. The proposal was submitted to the sub-committee of the national executive committee, marking a significant step in addressing long-standing environmental challenges along the Andhra Pradesh coastline.
Scientific Collaboration and Stakeholder Input
The detailed project report has been meticulously prepared in collaboration with the National Centre for Coastal Research, incorporating robust scientific data and extensive feedback from key stakeholders. This includes inputs from local fishing communities and esteemed institutions such as the National Institute of Oceanography, Andhra University, and the National Institute of Ocean Technology. The project scope spans the coastline from Coastal Battery Junction to Bheemili, covering a critical stretch vulnerable to erosion.
Risk Assessment and Site Classification
A thorough assessment has identified 30 erosion-prone sites along the coastline. Among these, the RK Beach area has been categorised as high-risk due to its susceptibility to severe erosion. Pedajalaripeta, Mangamaripeta, and Bheemunipatnam are classified under moderate risk, while the remaining 26 stretches fall into low-risk zones. This stratification allows for targeted mitigation efforts based on the severity of threats.
Funding and Implementation Strategy
VMRDA Metropolitan Commissioner Tej Bharath emphasised the project's urgency, noting that coastal erosion and flooding have posed escalating threats since 2007. He stated, "The total estimated cost is ₹203 crore, with the Andhra Pradesh government contributing 10% through APSDMA. The remaining 90% is proposed under the National Disaster Mitigation Fund of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs." Upon approval, execution will involve a coordinated mechanism with the state disaster management authority and local panchayats, supported by a technical advisory committee for ongoing monitoring.
Protecting Critical Assets and Tourism
The project aims to prevent land loss and safeguard vital tourism assets, including the iconic Kursura submarine museum, TU-142 aircraft museum, Gokul Park, public parks, premium hotels, and the scenic beach road linking Visakhapatnam to Bheemili. Additionally, it seeks to protect local fishing productivity, which is crucial for the regional economy. About 28.8 km of Visakhapatnam's coastline is highly erosion-prone, with 46.2 km under moderate or low-risk categories, highlighting the need for immediate action.
This initiative represents a proactive approach to disaster management, combining scientific expertise with community engagement to ensure sustainable coastal protection for future generations.
