Visakhapatnam MP calls for green growth alongside industrial expansion
Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat on Friday said the city’s rapid emergence as a major industrial and economic hub must be matched with equal emphasis on environmental protection and sustainable development.
Speaking at the inaugural session of the 2nd Andhra Pradesh Sustainability Summit–2026, organised by the Confederation of Indian Industry, he said the summit theme — “Sustainable Ecosystems for Tomorrow: Accelerating Green Growth, Digital Transformation and Climate Action” — underscored the need for balanced and inclusive growth.
Mr. Sribharat stressed the need to strengthen railway connectivity to key infrastructure projects such as Bhogapuram International Airport and Mulapeta Port, stating that improved links would reduce logistics costs and support industrial expansion. He also called for enhanced investment in research and development, saying innovation-led growth is crucial for long-term competitiveness.
He observed that sustainability goes beyond environmental concerns and also includes transparent governance, fair enforcement of laws, and ensuring a level playing field for businesses. Development, he added, must balance industrial growth with conservation of natural resources, clean air, and safe drinking water.
On agriculture, he noted that a significant portion of vegetables and fruits sold in Visakhapatnam’s Rythu Bazaars is sourced from other States. He called for the modernisation of the wholesale agricultural market and promotion of natural farming practices.
The MP said the government is implementing a ₹330-crore project to curb marine pollution, including the installation of advanced filtration systems at major drainage outlets to treat wastewater before discharge into the sea. He also cautioned against illegal groundwater extraction.
To address air pollution, he said the city is expanding its electric bus fleet and promoting container-based cargo movement. Railway modernisation works, including line doubling and tripling, are also part of efforts to promote sustainable mobility.
He urged citizens to adopt source segregation of waste and stressed collective responsibility in maintaining urban cleanliness.
Concluding his address, Mr. Sribharat said development should not be viewed only through physical infrastructure.
“True development lies in protecting our environment, conserving natural resources, and creating a healthy and sustainable city for future generations,” he said.
The summit was attended by CII Visakhapatnam Chairman G. Krishnamohan, CII Andhra Pradesh Vice Chairman Dr. G. Sambasiva Rao, Visakhapatnam District Collector M. Abhishek Kishore, Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board Chairman Dr. P. Krishnaiah, industry representatives, and senior officials.