The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation has appointed 44 expert swimmers for patrol and rescue operations at Vizag City beaches. GVMC conducted various tests for the 175 applicants who applied for these positions, of whom 38 were chosen and 6 will be on standby.

The GVMC withdrew the services of 38 community guards a few months ago due to allegations about the selection process. Applications for these positions were re-invited, and the previously serving 38 guards also applied, with only 12 making the cut in the selection process. Mayor G. Hari Venkata Kumari stated that the National Institute of Watersports, Goa, assisted the GVMC in finalizing candidates who are the best fit for these positions.

A series of tests, including physical fitness and swimming tests, was held to finalize the candidates, as drowning and missing cases on Vizag City beaches have increased. These guards will be on high alert and will take part in rescue operations if there are any mishaps on the beaches.