Kondakarla Aava Lake Tourism Under Scrutiny Over Mismanagement

Kondakarla Aava Lake, between Atchutapuram and Munagapaka mandals in Anakapalli district, is under scrutiny over allegations of financial mismanagement and unregulated tourism. Residents say private operators profit while the local community sees little benefit, despite substantial panchayat investments in eco-tourism.

The lake has long supported fishing hamlets such as Kondakarla, Andalapalli, and Vadrapally. But the recent tourism push has reportedly led to exploitation. “We had hoped tourism would support our livelihoods, but visitors are overcharged, and we see no returns,” said a local fisherman, requesting anonymity.

Traditional palm boats were replaced with fiber boats to improve safety. Yet commercialization has surged unchecked. Tourists complain of arbitrary pricing and missing life jackets. “We were asked to pay double the usual rate for boat rides, and no one checked for safety,” said a tourist from Visakhapatnam.

The panchayat, supported by corporate social responsibility funds, spent over Rs 1 crore on roads, solar lighting, sanitation, a rest area, purified water, a children’s park, and parking. Yet officials admit the community has not received any revenue. “Not even a rupee has come back to the village,” said a panchayat member.

Residents demand a structured regulatory mechanism. “This lake is our lifeline. We need fair pricing, safety norms, and transparent revenue use. Otherwise, our livelihoods will suffer,” said a local vendor.

Environmentalists warn that unregulated boating and littering are harming the lake’s fragile ecosystem. “Authorities must act before the damage becomes irreversible,” said an environmental activist.

With unrest simmering, residents are urging immediate intervention to protect both the lake and the livelihoods dependent on it.