•The Visakhapatnam Port Authority has deployed mobile water fogging and mist cannon vehicles under its CSR initiative to combat the summer heat wave.
•Operations will run daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., targeting high-traffic areas including RK Beach Road (from RK Beach to Appughar) and Railway Station Road.
•The mist cannons spray fine, pressurised water that evaporates quickly, lowering ambient temperatures in the immediate vicinity.
•The initiative is a temporary measure aimed at improving comfort for commuters, tourists, and outdoor workers until weather conditions improve.
•The move is part of the port’s community support efforts amid rising temperatures in coastal Andhra Pradesh.
•The deployment has been welcomed by locals and tourism stakeholders, especially along the popular beachfront.
•The VPA has not specified the duration but will continue operations based on ongoing weather conditions.
Visakhapatnam, May 24, 2026 – In response to the intense summer heat wave gripping the coastal city, the Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) has initiated a city-wide relief measure by deploying mobile water fogging and mist cannon vehicles along high-traffic areas. The initiative, launched under the port’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme, aims to reduce ambient temperatures and provide relief to residents, tourists, and outdoor workers during peak heat hours.
According to an official release issued by the VPA on Sunday, the mist cannon operations will be conducted daily from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. — the period of highest heat radiation. The targeted areas include the iconic RK Beach Road, stretching from RK Beach to Appughar, and the busy Railway Station Road, both known for their high footfall even during extreme weather conditions.
The specialised vehicles are equipped to spray a fine, pressurised water mist into the air. This mist evaporates quickly, absorbing heat from the surrounding environment and lowering local temperatures. The system is designed as a temporary measure to improve comfort levels and mitigate heat stress until weather conditions stabilise.
VPA officials have clarified that this deployment is part of the port’s ongoing CSR efforts to support the community during challenging weather. They stated that the initiative is intended to enhance the well-being of commuters, tourists, and labourers who are exposed to the elements daily. The port authority has assured that the mist cannons will operate consistently during the specified hours, ensuring maximum coverage in the designated zones.
This proactive step by the VPA comes as coastal Andhra Pradesh faces an extended spell of extreme heat, with temperatures frequently crossing 40°C in recent days. Public health advisories have been issued, urging residents to stay hydrated and avoid outdoor exposure during peak sunlight hours. In such a scenario, the deployment of mobile mist cannons is seen as a timely intervention to provide localized cooling in key public spaces.
The initiative has been welcomed by local residents and tourism stakeholders, particularly along RK Beach Road, a popular destination for both locals and visitors. The presence of the mist cannons is expected to improve the overall experience for those walking along the promenade or visiting nearby attractions.
As part of broader heat mitigation strategies, the VPA’s decision reflects a growing trend among urban and port authorities to adopt climate-responsive measures, especially in vulnerable regions. While the mist cannons offer immediate relief, long-term solutions such as urban greening and heat-resilient infrastructure remain under discussion.
The VPA has not yet announced the duration of the mist cannon deployment but has indicated that the service will continue as long as necessary based on weather conditions. Residents and visitors are advised to stay informed through local announcements regarding any changes in operation timings or coverage areas.
