Erra Matti Dibbalu Threatened by Housing Development

Visakhapatnam’s famed Erra Matti Dibbalu, celebrated for its striking red sand dunes along the Bay of Bengal, is under severe threat due to ongoing ground levelling activities intended for a new housing colony. This environmental controversy has ignited widespread concern among local authorities and environmental activists about the preservation of this unique geological heritage site, which holds both ecological and historical significance. As construction machinery has been spotted at the site, revenue officials have intervened to halt operations, revealing a broader conflict between development and environmental protection.

Recent social media footage has raised alarms about the integrity of Erra Matti Dibbalu, prompting immediate action from officials. While the housing society involved claims to have secured the necessary permissions for development, critics argue that the site remains inadequately protected and lacks proper demarcation. Declared a geo-heritage site by the Geological Survey of India (GSI), Erra Matti Dibbalu is theoretically protected by the Andhra Pradesh government, yet it remains at risk from encroachment and environmental degradation. The fragile nature of this unique landscape necessitates robust protective measures to ensure its longevity for future generations.

The ecological importance of the Erra Matti Dibbalu area is profound, with its rare geological formations stretching over five kilometres along the coastline and two kilometres wide. Similar formations exist only in Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka, making this a globally significant site. In response to the mounting criticism, the Bheemunipatnam Mutually Aided Co-Operative Building Society Ltd, which is overseeing the housing project, has asserted ownership of 373 acres adjacent to Erra Matti Dibbalu. They have committed to preserving over 90 acres of the geo-heritage site while developing the remaining land. However, their promises raise questions about the sincerity of their environmental commitment, especially without a defined boundary or official protection.