Srikakulam’s coastline projects stalled for a decade

Visakhapatnam: Tourism projects, especially those along the coastline in Srikakulam district, continue to gather dust as successive governments have failed to focus on earlier proposals. Authorities at both district and state levels had identified significant potential to develop 61 coastal locations across 11 mandals into attractive beaches that could generate employment for local youth. However, neither the previous government nor the current one has taken steps to develop these beach tourism projects.The district has a 193-km coastline stretching from Donipeta in Ranastalam mandal to Donkuru in Icchapuram mandal, blessed with abundant natural resources. There is considerable scope to develop Donkuru, Kaviti, Baruva, Bhavanapadu, Kalingapatnam, Kallepalli, Ganagallapeta and other areas into tourism destinations. Yet, no government has shown interest in the region for the past decade.Srikakulam also has several river confluences—Bahuda, Nagavali, Vamsadhara and Mahendratanaya—and historic temples with rich cultural heritage. In 2016, authorities identified 61 coastal spots for beach development. Of these, the then TDP government developed Kalingapatnam beach in Gara mandal by creating facilities, adding attractions, organising tourism utsavs and laying roads. However, maintenance has been neglected over the last seven years.Locals often compare the district's beaches with those in Odisha, where tourist spots are equipped with benches and basic amenities. District revenue officials say the administration now plans to develop a few beaches initially before expanding to other identified locations.