Concerns over new industrial and data center projects in fragile parts of Andhra Pradesh have been voiced by noted water conservationist Rajendra Singh. At a press conference Thursday, he called for stronger environmental protections amid these plans.
Readying for World Environment Day,Mr. Singh,founder of Jal Biradari, stressed the ecological importance of Visakhapatnam. City's unique position,hugged by sea and hills,mustn't be overlooked, he warned.
“Visakhapatnam must be recognized for its ecological value. With sea on one side and wildlife-rich hills on the other, neglecting to safeguard these areas could jeopardize our shared future,” Mr. Singh stated .
Mr . Singh,joined by environmentalist Bolisetty Satyanarayana, voiced fears about declining wetlands like Kondakarla Ava and Mudasarlova Reservoir. They say these water sources are under serious threat from proposed developments .
Allegations are that industrial and data center plans are eyeing ecologically sensitive zones, including Kambalakonda, Tarluvada, Mudasarlova, and farmland in Bhogapuram. Mr . Singh calls for stricter enforcement of Coastal Regulation Zone rules.
Mr. Singh emphasized need for environmental responsibility, invoking India's pledges from 1972 Stockholm Conference and mandates like Article 253. Officials urged to prioritize ecological conservation.
Event also unveiled draft for Indian Mountain Continuity and Security Act, 2026. This legislation,inspired by recent Jamshedpur Declaration from National Convention on Mountains and Rivers, aims to protect crucial ecological features: mountains, glaciers, watersheds.
"Mountains face growing risks from mining,mineral extraction. Laws must be set to protect mountains and rivers,” Singh said. But will these calls translate into action…
