Echoes of a Forgotten Maritime Legacy
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Echoes of a Forgotten Maritime Legacy
Sub: History
Sec: Art and Culture
Context:
- The resurfacing of World War II-era pillboxes on the beaches of Visakhapatnam, India.
About the pillboxes:
- Etymology:
- The term “pillbox” comes from their resemblance to early 20th-century medicine containers.
- Recent Discovery:
- Monsoon erosion has uncovered these pillboxes, which were long buried under sand.
- Two pillboxes:
- One at K. Beach, now visible due to erosion.
- Another at Jalaripeta fishing colony, still buried under sand and debris.
- Historical Context:
- Pillboxes are small concrete fortifications built during World War II.
- They were part of a defensive network to protect Visakhapatnam from potential enemy invasions.
- Visakhapatnam was considered a key target due to its important naval base and natural deep harbour.
- Design and Purpose:
- The pillboxes have loopholes for defenders to fire weapons.
- They were strategically positioned along the coastline.
- Their main purpose was to guard against threats from Axis forces, particularly Japanese submarines and aircraft.
- Environmental Factors:
- The uncovering of these structures is due to beach erosion caused by monsoons.
- Environmental experts are concerned about increasing beach erosion in Visakhapatnam.
Source: TH