Has a Case Been Filed for Breaching CRZ Norms at Bheemili Beach in Vizag?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
In a significant legal development, a case has been filed against a company linked to former MP Vijaya Sai Reddy's family, alleging violations of Coastal Regulation Zone norms at Bheemili Beach. This situation has escalated following complaints from the Andhra Pradesh Coastal Zone Management Authority, raising questions about environmental protection and regulatory compliance.
Key Takeaways
- Legal action initiated against a company for CRZ violations.
- Environmental protection is a priority as the court seeks accountability.
- A committee is formed to assess environmental damage.
- Public Interest Litigation highlights community concerns.
- Implications for future coastal development regulations.
Visakhapatnam, July 22 (NationPress) Authorities have initiated legal proceedings against a business owned by former MP Vijaya Sai Reddy's daughter, P. Neha Reddy, and son-in-law Rohit Reddy for purportedly breaching Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) guidelines at Bheemili Beach in the Visakhapatnam district.
The case was filed following a complaint from the Andhra Pradesh Coastal Zone Management Authority.
This action comes on the instructions of a Bheemili Court, which acted upon the complaint regarding the infringement of Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) standards.
Earlier in March, the Andhra Pradesh High Court mandated the AP Coastal Management Authority to report the matter to the police to facilitate action against the company that allegedly constructed a wall at Bheemili, also referred to as Bheemunipatnam Beach.
Jana Sena corporator Peetala Murthy Yadav filed a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) in the Andhra Pradesh High Court concerning these alleged encroachments.
The Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) demolished purported illegal structures in September last year after issuing formal notices to Neha Reddy.
This action was taken under the direction of the High Court, which also requested a comprehensive report from the GVMC.
In March this year, the High Court expressed serious concerns regarding the alleged CRZ violations after the petitioner asserted that the wall was only partially dismantled.
A special government pleader informed the court that all illegal constructions were removed except for an old building and some toilets.
A division bench comprising Chief Justice Dhiraj Singh Thakur and Justice Cheemalapati Ravi ordered the formation of a committee including the AP Coastal Zone Management Authority's member secretary, the GVMC commissioner, and the Visakhapatnam Collector to evaluate the environmental damage and report to the court.
The High Court also instructed that the costs associated with the demolition and environmental restoration be claimed from the company.
In January 2025, Vijayasai Reddy resigned from the YSR Congress Party and stepped down as a member of the Rajya Sabha, announcing his decision not to join any other political party.
Point of View
I emphasize the need for accountability in environmental regulations. The actions taken by the Andhra Pradesh authorities highlight the importance of adhering to Coastal Regulation Zone norms, ensuring both ecological preservation and community welfare. We stand firmly in support of responsible governance that prioritizes the environment.
NationPress
22/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Coastal Regulation Zone norms?
Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms are guidelines established to protect coastal environments from development that can lead to ecological degradation.
What actions were taken by the court?
The Bheemili Court ordered the case registration and mandated a committee to assess the environmental impact of the alleged violations.
Who filed the Public Interest Litigation?
Jana Sena corporator Peetala Murthy Yadav filed the PIL concerning the alleged encroachments at Bheemili Beach.
What is the consequence of the alleged violations?
The company may be required to cover the demolition costs and address the environmental damage caused by the illegal constructions.
What was the High Court's directive in this case?
The High Court directed the formation of a committee to evaluate environmental damage and mandated that the costs be recovered from the company.
