VIJAYAWADA: The recent inauguration of the 2.7 km-long retaining wall in Vijayawada, known for its rich cultural heritage and rapid urbanisation, has brought a sense of relief to residents of Ranigari Thota, Bhupesh Gupta Nagar, Taraka Rama Nagar, and Krishna Lanka regions, protecting them from flood threats.
The retaining wall, constructed by the Vijayawada Municipal Corporation (VMC), designed to withstand the force of up to 12 lakh cusecs of floodwater, benefiting over one lakh residents along a 3.44-kilometer stretch. The `276-crore structure instils confidence among the locals, who have earlier lived with the constant fear of floods during the rainy season and faced challenges in shifting to flood-relief camps.
According to the VMC officials, the retaining wall was constructed covering a total of six divisions, including 15,16,17,18, 20 and 21 divisions, benefitting the residents of adjacent 22nd division as well from floods.
Speaking to TNIE, 18th Division Corporator and YSRC floor leader Venkata Satyanarayana and 17th Division Corporator Tangirala Ramireddy reflected on Vijayawada’s flood history, noting over ten occurrences since 1995. They recalled the bitter challenges in relocating flood victims but praised government assistance in providing relief camp facilities. He also acknowledged the role of East Constituency YSRC in-charge Devineni Avinash in these efforts.
Riverfront park
Adjacent to the Krishna river, the Riverfront Park stands as a symbol of urban rejuvenation and environmental conservation. One of its striking features is the plaza structure, meticulously crafted from hollow cylindrical mild steel. Constructed manually without advanced machinery, the plaza structure reaches a height of 9 metres and a diameter of 10 metres, offering visitors a panoramic view of the river and its surroundings.
The park’s landscape is adorned with 15 different types of plant species, enhancing its ecological diversity and aesthetic appeal.
A significant investment of Rs 4 crore was allocated for the construction of a compound wall, ensuring the park’s security and integrity.
Longest retaining wall in South India
Spanning 2.7 km long, the structure is the longest in South India
Rs 276 crore spent for phases 2 and 3
Designed to withstand 12 lakh cusecs of floodwater
Protects low-lying areas, benefiting over one lakh residents
Riverfront park
Features a plaza structure manually constructed with mild steel
Offers a panoramic view of the Krishna river
Adorned with 15 plant species for ecological diversity
Rs 4 crore invested in construction of compound wall and Rs 1 crore invested in construction of drainage
Relocated 711 people and provided with new houses