Bheemili MLA Flags CRZ, Forest Law Restrictions in Land Allotments
Turning to religious tourism, Ganta referred to the Kalabhairava Swamy Temple at Simhachalam, which attracts nearly 40,000 devotees on Amavasya days
Visakhapatnam:Bheemili MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao has requested the state government to strike a balance between environmental safeguards and developmental needs along Visakhapatnam’s coastline, raising concerns over restrictions imposed under Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and Forest laws on public infrastructure and tourism projects.
Speaking during a recent discussion in the State Legislative Assembly, Ganta acknowledged the importance of enforcing regulations to protect ecologically sensitive areas, but stressed that their implementation should not obstruct essential public amenities and legally permissible development works.
The MLA’s remarks have come amid continuing tension between urbanisation pressures and environmental protection along the city’s rapidly expanding coastal belt.
Ganta pointed to the Visakhapatnam-Bheemili Beach Road lacking restaurants and visitor facilities along several stretches, despite its significance for tourism and economic growth. He noted that projects intended to enhance the area’s appeal have faced hurdles due to regulatory objections.
Citing the proposed ₹15‑crore ecology park at Sagar Nagar Beach, the MLA said the project has remained pending following objections from the Forest department. He drew attention to the drying coconut trees at the beach, where even proposals to install water tanks reportedly faced resistance.
Turning to religious tourism, Ganta referred to the Kalabhairava Swamy Temple at Simhachalam, which attracts nearly 40,000 devotees on Amavasya days. He emphasised the urgent need for basic facilities, such as an approach road, drinking water, toilets, and shaded shelters. He pointed out that proposals for these amenities have encountered objections from Forest authorities.
Ganta maintained that such cases should be examined individually, with solutions that comply with environmental regulations, while ensuring that public facilities are not denied to citizens and visitors. He stressed that development and conservation must go hand in hand, particularly in areas where tourism and public infrastructure are vital for community welfare.
