Gabion structures are being constructed in the Visakhapatnam district to help prevent landslides and rockslides, particularly in areas affected by recent heavy rains following Cyclone Montha. The district administration has announced that all ghat roads previously damaged by these natural events have been restored and reopened to traffic.
The collector of ASR district, A.S. Dinesh Kumar, stated that these gabion structures will be strategically implemented to mitigate the risks of landslides and rockslides during both monsoon and cyclone conditions. Gabions consist of galvanized steel wire mesh cages, which are filled with materials such as rock or concrete, providing a flexible and cost-effective alternative to traditional concrete or brick structures.
Dinesh Kumar identified nine specific locations at risk for rockfalls and mudslides, including Anantagiri, Araku Valley, Hukumpeta, G. Madugula, and G.K. Veedhi. Prior to installation, engineering teams from the Roads and Buildings department will conduct thorough surveys of these sites.
While Dinesh Kumar noted that these structures may not be able to stop larger boulders, they are effective in preventing smaller stones and mudslides, which pose a significant threat to road safety. As the popularity of tourist spots in the ASR district continues to grow, road repairs and gabion installations will become ongoing projects to accommodate increasing traffic.
The collector also mentioned that all relief camps have been closed now that residents have returned to their homes, indicating a return to normalcy in the region.
