Puri: Odisha’s golden beach in Puri has received the coveted global eco-label ‘Blue Flag’ certification under the Beach Environment & Aesthetic Management System (BEAMS) programme.
The 870-metre stretch from Digabareni square to the back of Mayfair Hotel here was developed under the World Bank-funded Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project (ICZMP) of the State Forest and Environment Department and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
It is among the eight beaches of India to have got the coveted title on the first attempt and made it to the global map.
GOLDEN BEACH PROJECT
Core infrastructure such as public toilets, changing and shower room, watchtowers, solar lighting system, sitting arrangements, demarcation of safe swimming zone besides mechanised pollution abetment services, beach safety and security measures were developed on this stretch at an investment of Rs 7.88 crore.
The Odisha government then took up peripheral activities such as approach road, fencing with plantation, parking, sand sculptures, water supply, jogging track, installation of CCTV cameras and public address system through the State Project Management Unit of ICZMP at a cost Rs 3.34 crore.
In September, the Union Government had nominated the seven seashores and Puri sea beach to the International Jury of Denmark under the ‘Blue Flag’ tag to the shorelines under BEAMS.
The Chandrabhaga beach in Puri district was the first in Asia to have got the tag in 2019.
Also Read: After Chandrabhaga, Puri Beach Recommended For ‘Blue Flag’ Tag
WHAT IS ‘BLUE FLAG’ CERTIFICATION?
The Blue Flag certification is a highly recognised eco-label in which a beach has to meet 33 criteria, including quality of seawater, toilet, changing rooms, first aid centres, solar lighting and parking lots, fixed by the Denmark-based non-profit Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE). The tag is given to environment-friendly and clean beaches which are equipped with amenities of international standards for tourists.
It is awarded annually to beaches and marinas in FEE member countries.
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