Berhampur: The Blue Flag beach in Sonapur beach in Odisha’s Ganjam district has been closed to visitors for annual maintenance.
This closure is expected to last for one week to ensure the beach maintains its Blue Flag status and attracts more visitors. The beach will be handed over to Vana Surakshya Samiti (VSS) for operation once the maintenance is completed, Berhampur DFO Sunny Khokkar told TOI.
Located on the confluence of Bahuda river and Bay of Bengal, Sonapur is the second blue flag beach in the state after the golden beach in Puri. It was awarded the international blue flag certification-2023, a globally recognised eco-label, by an international agency Foundation for Environment Education, Denmark, in January 2024.
The beach, spanning over over 800 metres, is located approximately 30 km from Berhampur and is a popular tourist attraction known for its clean waters and serene environment. It offers various facilities including specially designed wheelchairs for differently-abled persons, zero liquid waste discharge, lifeguard towers, trained paramedic staff to provide first aid, and CCTV coverage.
