Communist Party of India (Marxist) State Secretary V. Srinivasa Rao wrote to Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Tuesday (March 17, 2026) calling for immediate intervention to restore the “Straight Cut Canal” sea estuary on the Chirala coast of Bapatla district, which he said had been adversely affected by the encroachments.
In his letter, the CPI(M) leader pointed out that the mouth of the L-shaped canal at Chiral has been blocked with stones, disrupting the natural flow and causing difficulties for fishing boats. He noted that several ships were damaged due to the impact of strong waves after the channel’s structure was changed.
Mr. Srinivasa Rao said that despite complaints to the district authorities and the formation of a committee comprising fishermen and officials, the issue remains unresolved. He pointed out that the canal, built in 1972, supports the livelihood of about 2,000 fishing families in 10 villages and also benefits aquaculture and agriculture in the region.
He also claimed that increasing real estate activity and the construction of resorts along the coast from 2021 have led to encroachments, further exacerbating the problem. Farmers fear that without restoring the canal’s natural alignment, seawater intrusion could damage farmland and drinking water sources.
Mr. Srinivasa Rao demanded restoration of the canal, action against encroachers, cancellation of certain land allotments and compensation for affected fishermen, urging the Chief Minister to direct officials to act quickly.
Published – 17 March 2026 21:19 IST
