Visakhapatnam: Jal Biradari team appeals CM to protect water bodies

Visakhapatnam: Demanding Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy to save the Vizag beach from the discharge of untreated sewage emanating from pharmaceuticals and other industries, Jal Biradari convener Bolisetty Satyanarayana sent a letter to the CM on Saturday.

The sewage discharge mixed with chemical effluents and toxic pollution, Satyanarayana mentioned in the letter, not only affects the marine life but also the livelihood of the fishermen, posing a threat to their health.

As part of the conservation of water bodies campaign, Satyanarayana said Jal Biradari approached concerned officials, wrote letters and held meetings appealing them to protect the beach from encroachment, blockades and untreated sewage entering the water bodies.

Though efforts were made by the GVMC Commissioner to restore Kambalakonda, Satyanarayana mentioned that the major work of restoration of tributaries from Simhachalam hills are yet to take wings.

He said despite highlighting the issue to officials concerned, including Pollution Control Board, the problem continues to persist.

He appealed to the CM to take this issue on war-footing and resolve it at the earliest as the life of 20,000 people residing at Yendada and Jalaripeta is at stake. He added that the Jal Biradari would intensify agitation further if the issue remains unresolved.