Port dust pollution triggers health concerns in Visakhapatnam
Coal and iron ore dust from port operations continues to affect several residential areas in the city, with residents reporting deteriorating air quality during the summer months.
Localities including Gnanapuram, Allipuram, Chilakapeta, One Town, Kancherapalem, Railway New Colony, and Akkayyapalem are witnessing black dust settling on roads and inside homes. The impact is reported to be more severe in Gnanapuram and One Town.
South-westerly winds are carrying dust from open stockyards to far-off areas such as Seethammadhara and MVP Colony. While minerals stored in port yards are required to be covered with tarpaulins, residents allege that compliance is inconsistent.
“At several locations, the tarpaulin covers are either loosely tied or partially missing, which makes it very easy for fine dust to escape and get carried by wind,” said an environmental expert familiar with port operations. “When the material is exposed like this, even normal wind movement is enough to spread it across nearby residential pockets.”
At the SR Yard near Gnanapuram, coal heaps are reportedly only partially covered, with tarpaulins often getting displaced during strong winds. Residents say black dust regularly settles on homes, furniture, and vehicles, forcing them into daily cleaning routines.
Truck movement is also adding to the problem. Minerals transported from yards to berths are often not fully covered, leading to spillage and dust dispersion on roads, which is further spread by vehicular movement.
“Continuous exposure to coal and mineral dust is not a minor irritation. Over time, it can significantly affect lung function, especially in children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions like asthma,” said a city-based pulmonologist. “We are likely to see an increase in respiratory complaints if this level of exposure continues unchecked.”
Though dust suppression measures such as water sprinklers and misting systems are mandated, residents say they are not being consistently implemented in several port yards.
A Pollution Control Board official said inspections had been conducted and notices issued earlier to ensure compliance. “We have already flagged multiple violations during our inspections and directed operators to follow dust-control norms strictly. Further follow-ups will be done to ensure corrective action is taken,” the official said.
Residents, however, said there has been little visible improvement on the ground and urged authorities to take immediate steps to contain pollution and protect public health.