In a recent development, Dr. SVV Arun Kumar, a scientist at the Space Application Centre at ISRO, cautioned against the selection of RK Beach for the Floating Sea Bridge (FSB) project.

He advocated for alternative sites, emphasizing the unsuitability and potential dangers posed by RK Beach for such structures.

Controversy Surrounding RK Beach Floating Sea Bridge:

On February 25, Rajya Sabha member YV Subba Reddy, along with IT minister Gudivada Amarnath and Visakhapatnam Collector A Mallikarjuna, inaugurated the Floating Sea Bridge (FSB) near Kursura Submarine Museum along the RK Beach Road.

However, concerns arose just a day after its inauguration when reports of the bridge snapping surfaced on social media. VMRDA commissioner and District Collector A. Mallikarjuna refuted these reports, asserting that the bridge operating staff had taken precautionary measures.

Nevertheless, the incident triggered controversy surrounding the FSB project and its suitability for the coastline.

Alternative Site Recommendations By the ISRO Scientist:

Dr. S.V.V. Arun Kumar, expressed reservations about RK Beach as the chosen location for the Floating Sea Bridge.

He highlighted that the stretch of RK Beach near Kurusura Museum is prone to rip currents and suggested alternative sites with natural bay areas along the coastline, such as Lawsons Bay, Rushikonda Beach, and the Kapuluppada region, as more suitable options.

Concerns Raised by the Scientist:

Dr. Arun emphasized the importance of thorough modelling studies and bathymetric assessments before embarking on such projects.

He underscored the need to prioritize nature's principles and avoid compromising natural processes for development and tourism.

Additionally, he highlighted the potential disturbances to oceanic conditions posed by the installation of structures like the Floating Sea Bridge.

Research Findings and Safety Concerns:

Citing a 2022 research study conducted by ISRO, NCES, and AU, Dr. Arun revealed alarming findings regarding the hazardous nature of RK Beach due to rip currents.

The study reported a significant number of drownings at RK Beach over the past six years, underscoring safety concerns associated with the site.

Conclusion:

Efforts to obtain updates on the Floating Sea Bridge project from VMRDA authorities yielded no results. Dr. Arun's insights shed light on the importance of thoughtful site selection and thorough assessments to ensure the safety and sustainability of coastal development projects like the Floating Sea Bridge.

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