Rs 203-Crore Plan to Shield Vizag–Bheemili Coast from Erosion

The Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority has unveiled a detailed strategy to curb sea erosion along the Visakhapatnam–Bheemili coast. It has identified more than 30 locations for urgent protection. The authority has sought Rs 203 crore from the National Disaster Management Authority.

The Centre will cover 90 per cent of the cost. The Andhra Pradesh State Disaster Management Authority will fund the remaining 10 per cent. The proposal aligns with the state government’s push to maximise Central assistance for coastal protection.

VMRDA developed the plan using a scientific study. It worked with the National Centre for Coastal Research, Andhra University, and the National Institute of Oceanography.

The study outlines the severity of erosion. About 28.81 km of Visakhapatnam’s shoreline is critically eroded. Another 46.2 km stretch towards Bheemili faces moderate erosion. Researchers also found that nearly 40 of the 60 cyclones in the past five decades reshaped the coast.

Advancing seawater now threatens key landmarks. These include the Kursura Submarine Museum, the TU-142 Aircraft Museum, Gokul Park, and several premium hotels along Beach Road. The erosion also disrupts the lives of nearly 60,000 residents across about 30 fishing villages.

RK Beach remains the worst-hit area. Pedajalaripeta, Mangamaripeta, and Bheemili face high risk as well.

Senior officials reviewed the proposal in New Delhi. The Union Home Ministry Secretary chaired the meeting with NDMA representatives. VMRDA Joint Commissioner Ramesh and Superintending Engineer Bhavani Shankar attended in person. Commissioner Tej Bharat and Chief Engineer Vinay Kumar joined via video conference.

Officials said the Home Ministry has given an in-principle nod. They cited Visakhapatnam’s growing stature as a national tourism hub. A final decision on funding will follow at the next review meeting.