CPI demands scrapping of ‘beach shack policy’ in AP

The CPI has demanded that the Andhra Pradesh government withdraw its decision to allow beach shacks along the state’s coastline, saying the move will promote alcohol consumption under the guise of tourism development and adversely affect public safety.

In a statement on Thursday, CPI state secretary Gujjula Eswaraiah accused the government of trying to gradually transform AP into a “liquor-centric state” under the pretext of tourism development.

Referring to GO No. 362, Mr. Eswaraiah said the government has proposed to set up beach huts at selected coastal locations as part of a pilot project aimed at promoting coastal tourism. As per the policy, the initiative is expected to be implemented in all 12 coastal areas at locations designated by the Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC), with permits proposed from September 1, 2026 to August 31, 2029.

Noting that Surya Lanka and Visakhapatnam beaches have been earmarked for the first phase of the project, he disputed the government’s claim that the initiative would create new tourist attractions and generate local employment.

Demanding an immediate scrapping of the beach shack policy, Mr. Eswaraiah urged the government to continue developing tourism in a manner that is socially acceptable and beneficial to all sections of the society.

Published – 18 Jun 2026 23:53 IST