The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) has imposed environmental compensation totalling ₹16.32 crore on several industries in Visakhapatnam for alleged violations of environmental regulations and prescribed pollution-control standards.

According to reports, air pollution levels rose in December 2025, prompting closer monitoring of industrial emissions. Task Force teams inspected industries in January 2026 and identified deficiencies in compliance with air-quality requirements. Despite subsequent notices and inspections, authorities said the expected improvement was not achieved, leading to stricter enforcement action.

To improve monitoring, APPCB currently operates eight manual air-quality monitoring stations and three Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations in Visakhapatnam. Five additional Internet of Things (IoT)-based sensor stations are scheduled to become operational by November 2026.

APPCB Chairman P. Krishnaiah has also urged industries to maintain pollution-control equipment and comply with emission standards. Residents have been advised to use public transport where possible, maintain vehicle pollution certificates, avoid burning waste and ensure construction materials are transported under proper covers to limit dust.

The measures aim to reduce industrial and other sources of pollution and improve air quality across the city.