`Jawad' aftermath: Coastal erosion hit RK Beach in Vizag, damage park

Visakhapatnam: Coastal erosion hit the RK beach area in Vizag city on Sunday with high tides damaging a portion of the children's park.

The parapet wall of the park was damaged and cracks appeared on the ground.

Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) said 10 meters boundary wall was damaged. High tides also caused damage to the concrete flooring.

The erosion affected about a 200-meter area from RK Beach to Durgalamma temple. City police and GVMC officials stopped the entry of visitors and tourists into the park and the adjacent service road. No Entry boards were put up as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident.

Experts said strong winds and high tides due to cyclone `Jawad' might have led to the erosion. It is difficult to identify vulnerable areas for erosion. There is a need to conduct a comprehensive study to ascertain the reasons and to find out suitable solutions, experts added.

The erosion had hit several beaches in Vizag city in the past. Visakhapatnam Port Trust is taking up beach nourishment works in the eroded RK beach area every year. However, the measures have not helped in any way.

The erosion had caused damage worth Rs 1.5 crore. Development of the park may cost about Rs 4 crore, said GVMC officials