Visakhapatnam: Environmental activists and concerned citizens are raising their voices to protect the unique coastal red sand dunes, popularly known as Erra Matti Dibbalu (EMD), and the vulnerable ecosystem they support. The recent hacking of trees and leveling of land near the EMD site by the Visakhapatnam Metropolitan Region Development Authority (VMRDA) has sparked outrage among conservationists.
The EMD site, declared a geo-heritage site by the Geological Survey of India (GSI) in 2014, holds immense geological significance, serving as a testament to millions of years of natural processes. However, the lack of adequate protection measures has left the site vulnerable to encroachment and destruction.
Former IAS officer and social activist EAS Sarma expressed grave concerns about the actions taken by VMRDA near the EMD. In a letter to the Visakhapatnam district collector, Dr. A Mallikarjuna, Sarma questioned whether VMRDA had obtained necessary clearances and environmental approvals for the land leveling and tree hacking activities. Sarma emphasized the need to put a stop to this vandalism, which poses a serious threat to the EMD.
Local activist PLVN Murthy also submitted a representation to the district collector, urging immediate action to safeguard the EMD. Murthy highlighted previous irregularities and corruption in VMRDA’s development projects, emphasizing that the EMD deserved better protection given its designation as a significant geological site.
Meanwhile, in another positive environmental development, the rare and endangered Leatherback sea turtle made a rare appearance off the coast of Visakhapatnam after seven years. The sighting of the Leatherback turtle gained significant attention after a group of fishermen at Thantadhi Beach rescued and released the turtle, which had become entangled in a rope.
Marine biologist Sri Chakra Pranav explained that the presence of Leatherback turtles along the coast is rare, as they usually visit coastal areas solely for feeding rather than breeding. These turtles, known for their lack of a bony shell and their flexible, leather-like skin, primarily inhabit islands in the Andaman and Nicobar groups. The fishermen’s quick action in rescuing the entangled turtle highlights the importance of wildlife conservation efforts and responsible fishing practices.
However, the Leatherback turtles remain under threat due to human activities and the impacts of marine pollution, including plastic waste. The incident serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address marine pollution and protect endangered species in order to maintain a healthy and diverse marine ecosystem.