Residents Back Visakhapatnam North MLA on Rushikonda Resorts Issue

Support has emerged among local residents for BJP MLA P. Vishnu Kumar Raju of Visakhapatnam North, who criticized the Cabinet Sub-Committee for its statement on the use of the palatial buildings at Rushikonda, constructed during the YSRCP regime. People said the views of local representatives and stakeholders should be sought before any decision is made.

Speaking to the media, Mr. Raju said the committee did not consult him or other elected representatives from Visakhapatnam. “Did the Sub-Committee hold any discussions with local representatives about what should be done with these buildings? I was not contacted at all. I have spoken to other representatives, and none of them received any call. People are unhappy with the way decisions are being made. The opinion of the people of Visakhapatnam must be considered,” he said.

The MLA stated that the Rushikonda resorts were previously open to the public. Referring to reports that the buildings may be handed over to major hotel groups, he said this would limit access for ordinary people. “If these buildings are given to big hotel groups, the common man will no longer be able to use them,” he added.

Residents shared similar views. “These buildings were built with public money and should remain open to the people,” said Srinivas, a resident. Another resident, Lakshmi Devi, stated that such decisions should not be made without consulting elected representatives and the public.

Vendors operating near Rushikonda beach also raised concerns. “If private hotels take over, small vendors like us will lose our livelihood,” said Ramesh, who has been working in the area for more than a decade.

Residents urged the government to hold discussions with local representatives and stakeholders before deciding on the future use of the buildings.