Visakhapatnam: A row of MLA's proposals were erupted to use bleaching capabilities to “clean” the Sangivalasa Kondappa tank. Environmentalists say this is a wrong step and can harm the environment.
Bhimili MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao recently inspected the Sangivalasa Kondappa tank of GVMC Ward 2 and asked officials to clean it with bleach. Rao quotes the deaths of many fish and stinking out of the water.
MLA's son Ganta Ravi Teja visited the Chillapeta Pedda tank in Thagarapuvalasa on Sunday, accompanied by some leaders. Ravi Teja recalled past development efforts and pointed out that a Rs 190 crore allocation has been made to improve tank improvements, including the strengthening of erected pedestrian tracks and embankments.
He stressed that given the troubles caused to nearby communities, permanent solutions are needed to prevent water pollution.
The well-known water conservationist Rajendra Singh criticized the proposed cleaning method. During his last visit to Vizag, he checked Kondappa and Chillapeta Pedda Ponds, warning against bleaching.
He called it an unwise measure that would not address potential pollution problems. He urged authorities to prioritize sewage prevention and proper regular maintenance rather than temporary repairs.
Experts and environmentalists responded to these concerns. Data compiled by the Community User Association (WUA) show that the distinct reality of 105 farm ponds in Pendurthi, 14 in Gajuwaka, 172 in Anandapuram, 128 in Bheemili, 16 in Padmanabhapuram, 16 in Padmanabhapuram.
In response, VMRDA and GVMC seek expert guidance. Pond conservation expert Lokesh Siran has been suggested to identify sustainable conservation technologies. Seeram stressed that Vizag's ponds are arranged in a cascading pattern and require special maintenance strategies.
In addition, the bird watching community also opposed the use of bleached powder, citing its potential harm to 107 migratory birds that rely on Chillapeta ponds.
With the increasing focus of conservationists, local communities and environmental experts, discussions are turning to long-term solutions and ongoing efforts to protect critical water bodies in Visakhapatnam.
