Amaravati, December 31, 2025: Fisherfolk in Perupalem, a coastal village in West Godavari district, are fighting to protect their livelihoods after authorities cleared more than 1,500 coconut trees and vast stretches of casuarina plantations near the beach.
Locals say the destruction, ongoing since 2016, has supported roads, resorts, a marine police station, beach events, and now temporary facilities for tourists. These plantations have become vital income sources as fish catches decline.
Villagers and activists argue the builds violate Coastal Regulation Zone rules, which ban permanent structures in the No Development Zone up to 200 meters from the high tide line.
The Andhra Pradesh High Court has issued stay orders in the past and recently directed status quo on new work following fresh petitions. District officials describe the current structures as temporary public utilities not covered by prior restrictions.
