Andhra Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister and Forest & Environment Minister Pawan Kalyan on Saturday conducted an intensive review meeting with officials of the Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) on rising industrial and coastal pollution in Kakinada district. The high-level review, focused on the Uppada coastal belt and nearby fishing zones, was held through video conference with participation from the Kakinada district administration.

The minister expressed serious concern over the mounting environmental problems triggered by industrial discharges and mining activities in the region, particularly along the Pithapuram constituency coastal stretch. “Coastal ecosystems are the lifeline of thousands of fishing families. We cannot and will not tolerate unchecked pollution,” Pawan Kalyan told officials, issuing firm instructions for immediate enforcement of environmental norms.

The Deputy CM referred to issues raised by local fishing communities during his recent interaction in Kakinada. Fishermen had voiced concerns over declining fish populations, oil residue in nets, and health issues due to polluted waters. Pawan Kalyan directly sought clarifications from PCB officials on these concerns. “The people on the coast are the first to suffer the consequences of industrial negligence. They deserve clear answers and decisive action,” he asserted.

The review also discussed the standard procedures to be followed during pollution audits, including real-time effluent monitoring, strict compliance checks, and transparent public reporting. 

Officials briefed the minister on ongoing and pending pollution control measures in Kakinada and neighboring districts of East and West Godavari, where similar problems persist due to rapid industrialization. Pawan Kalyan directed the Pollution Control Board to intensify surprise inspections, impose heavy penalties on violators, and submit a detailed action plan within a fixed timeframe. He also stressed the need to coordinate closely with local bodies, environmental experts, and fishing communities to ensure community-led monitoring and early detection of violations.

“This government will not compromise on environmental protection. Industries must follow the law, or face strong consequences,” the Deputy CM declared.