In response to a two-day protest by fishermen in the Uppada region of Andhra Pradesh’s Kakinada district, which continued on Wednesday, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan has announced the formation of a special committee to resolve their concerns over sea pollution.
The fishermen have been staging a protest, along with their families, blocking the Uppada-Kakinada-Pithapuram road. They are of the view that the release of chemical waste from pharmaceutical companies is destroying marine life and severely impacting their livelihoods.
In addition to demanding that the government curb pollution, the protestors have also sought compensation of ₹1.50 lakh per family.
Pawan Kalyan, who also serves as the Minister for Environment and Forests, stated that he understood the hardships faced by the fishing community. While he is unable to visit the area personally due to ongoing Assembly sessions, he has been discussing the matter with district and state-level officials to find solutions.
He confirmed that a committee will be constituted to address the issue. It will include officials from the Pollution Control Board, as well as the Industries, Fisheries, and Revenue departments, along with the Kakinada District Collector. Crucially, representatives from the fishermen community and local leaders will also be part of the committee.
The actor-politician said the committee will not only focus on resolving the pollution issue but also on improving livelihoods and providing basic infrastructure in coastal villages. The committee's report, which will contain actionable recommendations, will also address the assessment of compensation for affected families.
Pawan Kalyan confirmed that some immediate issues have already been identified for priority resolution, including the payment of insurance to the families of 18 deceased fishermen and compensation for damaged boats near the Uppada Fishing Harbour. He added that he has also instructed officials to give special attention to creating fishing opportunities in areas like Machilipatnam and Antarvedi. He promised to personally meet with the fishermen after the Assembly sessions conclude to discuss all their issues comprehensively.
Meanwhile, Kakinada District Collector Shan Mohan Sagili has visited the protest site, heard the grievances of the fishermen and assured them that their representatives will be included in the new committee.
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