15% of Vizag hills vulnerable to landslides, study warns

Visakhapatnam: Nearly 15% of Visakhapatnam's hilly terrain has been identified as highly vulnerable to landslides, with risks concentrated in the Kailasagiri and Simhachalam hill ranges, according to a recent scientific study. The landslide susceptibility map, developed using geographic information systems and artificial intelligence, classifies the city into five risk categories — very low, low, moderate, high, and very high — offering one of the most comprehensive hazard assessments in the region.Researchers used the Random Forest algorithm, combining field surveys, satellite imagery, and a detailed inventory of past landslides. Twelve environmental factors — including slope angle, land use, rock type, rainfall, and proximity to roads — were analysed. The study found steep slopes with weathered Khondalite rock near construction sites and roads most prone to slope failures, while flatter coastal stretches largely fell into low-risk zones.Rapid urbanisation has intensified landslide risks, with unscientific construction, deforestation, and disrupted drainage patterns weakening hill stability. Even prolonged rainfall could trigger slope failures in vulnerable pockets. The study, conducted by Dr Ch Kannam Naidu, Dr Ch Vasudeva Rao, Y Priyanka, and T Rohini of Visakha Institute of Engineering and Technology, proposes upgrading the system into a dynamic early-warning mechanism by integrating real-time rainfall data and IoT-based ground sensors.Experts recommend stricter building regulations in high-risk hill zones, mandatory geotechnical investigations before new projects, and engineering measures such as retaining walls, slope anchoring, and improved stormwater management to reduce collapse risks.