Visakhapatnam’s tourism and trade stakeholders, including representatives of Chambers of Commerce, Andhra Pradesh Tourism Forum (APTF), and Tours and Travels Association (TTA), have called for urgent measures to boost safety and accessibility at popular tourist spots. In a recent meeting with Visakhapatnam police commissioner Shanka Brata Bagchi, they emphasized the importance of 24/7 access to the scenic stretch between RK Beach and Park Hotel Junction while increasing police surveillance.
The demand for enhanced security extends to geo-heritage sites like the natural arch formation at Mangamaripeta beach. The area, once secluded, has seen a surge in visitors capturing selfies and even attempting risky bike stunts on the fragile geological structure.
The representatives also highlighted safety concerns at the historic Buddhist site of Thotlakonda. Crimes such as robbery, snatching, and harassment of couples have reportedly escalated due to inadequate surveillance cameras and police presence. K. Vijay Mohan, chairman of the AP Chambers Tourism Committee and president of APTF and TTA, recounted an incident where four individuals attacked and robbed tourists at Lumbini Park on Beach Road.
Senior travel operator Dheeraj Praha expressed concern over the decline in tourist arrivals from West Bengal, traditionally a significant segment of visitors. He revealed that last year, over one lakh Bengali tourists visited Visakhapatnam and Araku from October to January. This year, the numbers have dwindled, with fewer arrivals even during the Dasara holidays.
The meeting also addressed the menace of fraudulent travel agents exploiting unsuspecting tourists. Fly-by-night operators have been accused of swindling crores of rupees, leaving travelers stranded. Vijay Mohan proposed forming a committee comprising tourism industry representatives, police, and revenue officials to monitor and curb these unethical practices.
The collective voices of tourism stakeholders underline the need for stronger collaboration and action to enhance Visakhapatnam’s reputation as a safe and welcoming destination for travelers.
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