Sewage trail mars Vizag’s iconic RK Beach

A foul mix of untreated wastewater, stormwater and garbage has once again found its way onto the iconic Ramakrishna (RK) Beach, triggering fresh outrage among citizens and environmental observers over the continuing pollution of Vizag’s coastline.

Following heavy spells of rain caused by low-pressure systems over the Bay of Bengal, several urban drains have overflowed, sending contaminated water across the beach and directly into the sea.

The ugly trail of discoloured water could be seen cutting through the sand and emptying into the Bay of Bengal, leaving dark patches along the shoreline. Plastic waste, silt and other accumulated garbage were also swept towards the tidal zone, raising concerns about their impact on marine life and the coastal ecosystem.

For morning walkers and regular beachgoers, the recurring problem is becoming increasingly difficult to ignore.

“RK Beach is the face of Visakhapatnam. It is disturbing to see sewage and garbage flowing into the sea whenever there is heavy rain,” said a regular visitor, pointing to the polluted stretch.

The latest incident has also revived questions about the city’s stormwater and underground drainage systems. Open stormwater drains and sections of the underground drainage network appear unable to cope with the sudden surge in flow during intense rainfall, resulting in sewage and urban waste breaching existing barriers and reaching the coastline.

The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) has previously announced plans to divert major drains and connect them to sewage treatment plants (STPs) as part of efforts to strengthen the underground drainage (UGD) system. However, citizens say the recurring episodes point to gaps between planned interventions and their execution on the ground.

Environmental observers have called for immediate action to prevent untreated sewage from entering the sea, particularly during the monsoon. They have also stressed the need for regular drain cleaning, proper segregation of stormwater and sewage, and continuous monitoring of coastal outfalls.

The concern extends beyond the beach’s appearance. Untreated wastewater entering the Bay of Bengal can affect nearshore water quality, marine organisms and public health, particularly along a heavily used stretch such as RK Beach.

With more spells of rain expected during the season, residents fear that the problem could worsen unless temporary safeguards are put in place alongside the planned drainage works.

GVMC Superintending Engineer (Water Supply & UGD Projects) Ch. Yedukondalu said measures were already underway to address the problem.

“GVMC is currently working on the diversion of certain stormwater drains linking to the sewage treatment plants. The issue will be resolved soon,” he said.

For a city that proudly showcases its coastline as one of its biggest attractions, citizens say the message is clear: Vizag’s drains cannot be allowed to turn its beaches into sewage outlets.