MP M Sribharat commended the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) for their efforts to position the port as a leading Indian maritime hub by 2027. However, he emphasised the importance of achieving this goal while maintaining a strong commitment to environmental stewardship. During a meeting on Monday, Sribharat stated, ‘Our progress must be sustainable and prioritise the health and well-being of our community.’
The meeting delved into critical issues such as pollution mitigation, the SL Canal’s challenges, and the expansion of the fishing harbour. Sribharat voiced his profound concern regarding the adverse effects of pollution on the health of residents, urging the port authorities to adopt more stringent measures to address this pressing concern.
The port’s pollution control initiatives have come under scrutiny from local communities. Sribharat’s call for more decisive action signals a renewed commitment to sustainability. “The port’s development should not be solely focused on industrial growth but should also prioritize the welfare of the people,” he reiterated.
The review also encompassed plans for a cruise terminal aimed at bolstering tourism. Sribharat highlighted the necessity of optimizing the utilization of port spaces, aligning with Visakhapatnam’s broader vision of becoming a prominent commercial and tourist hub.
Visakhapatnam TDP Parliamentary President Gandi Babji, VPA Chairperson Dr M. Angamuthu, Deputy Chairman Durgesh Kumar Dubey, and other port officials attended the meeting and expressed their unwavering support for Sribharat’s call to action.
As Visakhapatnam races towards its ambitious 2027 target, Sribharat’s leadership will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in ensuring that the port’s growth is not only prosperous but also environmentally responsible.