Uncontrolled wastewater discharge into the sea is becoming a growing environmental concern in Visakhapatnam.
Several drainage channels in the city continue to carry wastewater towards the coastline.
RK Beach is among the stretches where drainage flows have raised concerns.
The issue becomes particularly visible when polluted water and waste reach the beach and near-shore waters.
According to submissions before the National Green Tribunal, Visakhapatnam generates around 224 MLD of sewage every day.
The city’s available sewage-treatment capacity has been reported at around 179 MLD.
Several drains have been diverted to sewage treatment plants, but others continue to discharge towards coastal areas.
Plastic waste, organic matter and other pollutants carried through these drains can enter marine ecosystems.
Environmental experts have warned that continued wastewater discharge could affect coastal biodiversity and fishing resources.
The issue also highlights the gap between rapid urban development and the expansion of underground sewerage infrastructure.
GVMC has been working on projects to intercept drainage flows and divert them towards treatment facilities.
Stronger monitoring and treatment of wastewater are being seen as essential to protect Vizag’s coastline and its beaches.