Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat submitting a representation to Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal to address pollution in Visakhapatnam, at New Delhi on Friday.
| Photo Credit: SPECIAL ARRANGMENT
Visakhapatnam MP M. Sribharat met Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Sarbananda Sonowal, in New Delhi and submitted a detailed representation seeking stronger and time-bound measures to effectively control pollution arising from port operations in Visakhapatnam.In his representation, the MP highlighted that, given Visakhapatnam’s unique geographical setting and rapidly expanding industrial and port activities, environmental protection must receive the highest priority. He stressed that economic growth and environmental sustainability must progress hand in hand to safeguard public health and improve the quality of life of citizens.As a follow-up to the high-level review meeting convened on July 10, at the Visakhapatnam Collectorate with officials of the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB), the District Administration, Visakhapatnam Port Authority, Adani Gangavaram Port, major port operators, and other concerned departments, Mr. Sribharat apprised the Union Minister of the discussions and recommendations made during the meeting. The review had examined dust pollution generated during cargo loading, unloading, storage, and transportation activities, and identified a series of time-bound mitigation measures.The MP explained that Visakhapatnam’s bowl-shaped topography restricts the dispersion of airborne pollutants, causing particulate matter to remain trapped within the city. He noted that port-related activities are among the significant contributors to the increasing levels of PM10 and PM2.5. While acknowledging the initiatives already undertaken by the Visakhapatnam Port Authority and Adani Gangavaram Port, including mechanisation of cargo handling, deployment of fog cannons, automated sprinkler systems, HDPE cargo covering, truck tyre washing facilities, and development of green buffer zones, he observed that public concerns over pollution continue to persist.The MP urged the Union Minister to expedite the implementation of the Harit Sagar – Green Port Guidelines, 2023, and to ensure complete mechanisation of dust-intensive bulk cargo handling operations. He also requested that all port terminals be mandated to install enclosed conveyor systems, scientific cargo storage facilities, automated dust suppression systems, and wind barriers to minimise dust emissions.The MP further proposed the formulation of a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for dust-free bulk cargo handling across all major ports in the country.He recommended establishing an Environmental Accountability Framework for port authorities and cargo handling agencies, incorporating measurable environmental performance indicators (KPIs), quarterly compliance reporting, public access to real-time air quality information, annual third-party environmental audits, and stringent enforcement mechanisms for repeated violations. Published - August 07, 2026 08:53 pm IST
