Rains help creeper plants multiply along Vizag roads

An arch of creepers climbing from one side of the road to the other on Dabagardens road has turned into an attraction. Similar creepers and plants can be seen along other roads and corners in other parts of the port city too.

This phenomenon is being attributed to heavy rains which, apart from flooding roads and streets, have provided an ideal environment for these plants to multiply.

M. Venkayya, a retired professor of botany, spoke to Deccan Chronicle on the impact the rains had rains on local vegetation. He noted that various weeds, including Tridax and Acalypha indica, apart from grasses, thrive along roads during rains.

The professor highlighted the presence of medicinal plants, such as Phyllanthus niruri, which is used to treat jaundice, and Boerhavia diffusa, known for its medicinal properties. However, he cautioned against certain plants that, while not life-threatening, can cause itching. These include Tragia, which grows in the Visakhapatnam area.
The continuous rainfall, while helping creepers and plants grow, has resulted in accumulation of knee-deep water in several parts of the city, making travel difficult for residents, particularly those walking.

Roads could be seen inundated, particularly in areas like PM Palem, Madhurawada, and Jagadamba Centre. Motor vehicles had to wade through the flooded streets.

In response to the severe weather conditions and inundation of roads, local authorities declared a holiday for schools in Visakhapatnam and surrounding districts.