Ahead of E Day, Waterman Singh Wants AP’s Fragile Ecosystems Protected

Visakhapatnam: On the eve of World Environment Day, environmentalists and former senior government officials have jointly raised serious concerns over the growing threats to Andhra Pradesh’s ecological resources. They have appealed to authorities to take immediate corrective measures and safeguard the state’s natural heritage.

Addressing a gathering in this regard, noted environmentalist Dr Rajendra Singh, known as the Waterman of India, recalled the historic 1972 Stockholm Conference, where India, under then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, emerged as a strong advocate of environmental justice, while emphasising the developmental rights of developing nations.

Dr Rajendra Singh said the principles established during the conference continue to guide global environmental governance and remain highly relevant in the face of current ecological challenges.

Referring to Article 253 of the Constitution, the noted environmentalist underlined that India is obligated to honour international environmental commitments. He expressed concern over the degradation of key water bodies and wetlands in India, including Kolleru Lake, Mudasarlova Reservoir, and Kondakarla Ava in AP. He warned that unchecked development activities are already threatening biodiversity and ecological balance.

Environmentalists at the meeting expressed concern over industrial projects and data centres being established in eco-sensitive regions, such as Tarlavada, Kambalakonda, Mudasarlova, and agricultural lands in Bhogapuram without adequate environmental assessments.

Alleging continued violations of Coastal Regulation Zone norms, the environmentalists urged the government to prioritise conservation, sustainable development, and eco-tourism over environmentally damaging industrial expansion. They called for stricter enforcement of environmental laws and greater transparency in project approvals to protect future generations.