Overview An investigation has commenced, led by District Collector R. Mahesh Kumar , into the mass mortality of coconut trees along the Sankaraguptam drain in the Razole assembly constituency of Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema district. The team includes irrigation engineers and remote sensing experts who aim to identify the scientific reasons behind this ecological issue. Key Developments Affected Area: Coconut trees along the banks of the Sankarguptam natural drain have died in nine villages across Malkipuram and Maamidikuduru mandals. Cause: The primary cause is attributed to the high salinity level of the drain water. Drainage: The drain flows for approximately 22 kilometers before its confluence with Vynateya , a branch of the river Godavari , which eventually merges with the Bay of Bengal . Inspection: On November 26, 2025 , Deputy Chief Minister K. Pawan Kalyan inspected the coconut orchards affected by stunted growth and the natural flow of the Sankaraguptam drain. Investigation: Mr. Mahesh Kumar has instructed irrigation engineers to submit their observations and engage in detailed discussions with remote sensing experts to pinpoint the exact affected areas along the drain. Officials Involved: Executive Engineer (Drains) M. V. V. Kishore and Dowleswaram Irrigation Circle Superintendent Engineer Mr. Gopinath are also participating in the investigation. Action Plan: Mr. Mahesh Kumar has directed the irrigation engineers to prepare an action plan for submission to Mr. Pawan Kalyan . UPSC Relevance This event is relevant to GS3: Environment and Ecology , specifically concerning the impact of water salinity on agriculture and ecosystems. It also touches upon GS1: Geography , related to river systems and coastal regions. The use of remote sensing technology connects to GS3: Science and Technology . Potential Exam Questions Discuss the environmental and economic impacts of increasing salinity in coastal agricultural lands. Evaluate the role of remote sensing technologies in monitoring and mitigating environmental degradation. What measures can be taken to address the issue of high salinity in the Sankaraguptam drain and protect coconut orchards? Important Facts The incident occurred in the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar Konaseema district. The affected drain is the Sankaraguptam drain. The drain's length is approximately 22 km . The confluence point is with the river Vynateya , a branch of Godavari . The inspection by Deputy CM K. Pawan Kalyan took place on November 26, 2025 .