Botcha opposes beach shacks, seeks probe into VSP accidents
YSR Congress Party (YSRCP) MLC Botcha Satyanarayana on Saturday criticised the government’s decision to permit beach shacks in Visakhapatnam, alleging that the move promotes liquor consumption under the guise of tourism development and undermines the city’s cultural values.
Addressing a press conference at his camp office here, Mr. Satyanarayana said tourism development should focus on strengthening infrastructure, generating employment opportunities and showcasing the region’s natural and cultural heritage, rather than encouraging alcohol consumption along the coastline.
“Promoting liquor consumption on beaches cannot be considered tourism development. Such initiatives are against our cultural values and traditions,” he said, questioning the rationale behind the government’s decision.
The senior YSRCP leader also expressed concern over recent accidents at the Visakhapatnam Steel Plant (VSP), stating that worker safety must remain a top priority. He said a YSRCP delegation would soon meet the plant management to seek a detailed inquiry into the incidents and urge the implementation of stricter safety measures.
Mr. Satyanarayana said the accidents had raised concerns among employees and their families, making it imperative for the management to identify the causes and take corrective steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Referring to the issue of VSP privatisation, he accused NDA leaders of misleading the public with what he described as false claims. He maintained that YSRCP president and former Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy had consistently opposed the Centre’s privatisation plans and played a key role in protecting the interests of the steel plant and its workforce.
The MLC further alleged that the NDA government had failed to fulfil several promises made to the people during the past two years, particularly those related to women’s welfare and empowerment.
Mr. Satyanarayana also raised concerns over the conduct of DSC-2025, alleging irregularities in the recruitment process and calling for greater transparency. He said the grievances of aspirants and unemployed youth should be addressed in a fair and credible manner.
YSRCP leader Gudivada Amarnath and other party functionaries were present at the press conference.