Visakhapatnam’s Pillboxes | 05 Oct 2024

Source: TH

Why in News? 

Due to the monsoon, Visakhapatnam's beaches have shifted, revealing World War II pillboxes that were buried in the sand, offering a look into the city's forgotten maritime history. 

What are Pillboxes? 

  • About: 
    • The pillboxes, constructed during the height of World War II, were part of a strategic defense network to safeguard Visakhapatnam's shores from potential enemy invasions. 
    • The name "pillbox" comes from their resemblance to medicine containers used in the early 20th century for storing pills. 
  • Visakhapatnam's Pillboxes: 
    • The most visible pillbox is located at R.K. Beach, revealed by beach erosion, while a second one at Jalaripeta fishing colony is buried under sand, garbage, and neglect. 
      • Visakhapatnam was a significant target during the war, as it is one of India's key naval bases with a deep natural harbor.  
  • Strategic Importance: 
    • The pillboxes were designed to blend into the landscape, making them difficult for enemies to detect. 
    • They functioned as tactical posts, allowing soldiers to defend the coastline while providing secure cover for firing at enemies.

World War I and II 

  • World War I (1914-1918) was fought between the Allied Powers (France, Russia, Britain, Italy, Japan, and the United States) and the Central Powers (Germany, Austria-Hungary, the Ottoman Empire, and Bulgaria), with the Allied Powers emerging victorious. 
  • World War II (1939-1945) was fought between the Axis Powers (Germany, Italy, and Japan) and the Allied Powers (France, Great Britain, the United States, the Soviet Union, and China), with the Allied Powers winning the war.

UPSC Civil Services Examination, Previous Year Question (PYQ) 

Q. The plan of Sir Stafford Cripps envisaged that after the Second World War (2016)

(a) India should be granted complete independence 

(b) India should be partitioned into two before granting independence 

(c) India should be made a republic with the condition that she will join the Commonwealth 

(d) India should be given Dominion status 

Ans: (d)