Blue Flag Certification Returns to Rushikonda Beach
Text By: M Bharathi
Rushikonda Beach Regains Blue Flag Certification: Minister Durgesh Highlights Tourism Boost and Cleanliness Drive In Visakhapatnam’s renowned Rushikonda Beach, State Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh hoisted the Blue Flag. The minister, who arrived in Visakhapatnam on Monday morning, was warmly welcomed by officials and leaders. Speaking at a media conference organised at Rushikonda Beach, Minister Durgesh stated that, due to the negligence of the previous government, the Blue Flag certification had been temporarily revoked. However, upon recognising this issue, Minister Durgesh immediately took steps to restore it. He emphasised that the Blue Flag certification enhances international tourism and urged public cooperation in the beach’s development.
He mentioned that a special action plan has been formulated under the leadership of Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan to ensure the continuous presence of the Blue Flag at the beach. Stressing the importance of keeping beaches clean, he stated that maintaining the Blue Flag status and attracting more tourists requires the active participation of the public and local residents. He called for leaders, officials, and citizens to work together to enhance management efficiency. Minister Kandula Durgesh further clarified that the Blue Flag certification was only temporarily withdrawn by a Denmark-based organisation, and at no point was it stated that it would be permanently revoked. He mentioned that this temporary withdrawal served as a reminder of the responsibility to improve management capabilities.
As a result, the Blue Flag certification for Visakhapatnam’s Rushikonda Beach has been reinstated. The minister pointed out that while bringing new projects to the state is relatively easy, efficient management of these projects requires unified efforts. He urged people not to litter the beach indiscriminately, refrain from throwing plastic waste and other trash into the sea, and avoid polluting the water. He emphasised that it was the responsibility of local representatives to educate tourists and the public about maintaining cleanliness. He stressed the need for people to follow designated policies to ensure the beach remains clean and sustainable. He reiterated that the Blue Flag certification plays a crucial role in attracting international tourists and that the tourism department is responsible for maintaining cleanliness and necessary amenities at the beach.
Minister Durgesh stated that the state government has placed a special focus on the tourism department, introducing a new tourism policy, and granting industry status to the sector. He urged tourism officials in Visakhapatnam to work with greater responsibility to develop tourism in the region. He called on everyone to contribute to making Visakhapatnam more beautiful. As part of this initiative, he proposed setting up facilities like bamboo walkways or relaxation areas. He also mentioned plans to introduce beer and wine beach shacks to attract international tourists, thereby boosting tourism and strengthening the economy. He informed us that the chief minister has received this proposal and expects a decision soon. The minister highlighted Rushikonda Beach’s uniqueness among the numerous beaches along Andhra Pradesh’s 974 km-long coastline and noted its natural beauty and surrounding ecological wealth. He emphasised the need to transform Rushikonda Beach into an environmentally educational site for future generations.
He emphasised that the beach earned the Blue Flag certification through significant efforts, and it must continue to prioritise beauty and cleanliness. Plans are in place to establish international food stalls at the beach while ensuring that local communities are not inconvenienced. He assured that fishermen who rely on the area for their livelihood would not face difficulties and stated that public representatives have a humanitarian responsibility alongside regulatory obligations. He issued a stern warning that strict action would be taken against any illegal land encroachments and reassured them that local needs would be recognised and addressed accordingly. Minister Durgesh, in his concluding address, expressed pride in ensuring that the Blue Flag continues to fly at Rushikonda Beach. He stated that just as the Blue Flag remains unfurled, the coalition government should also continue to progress with the support of the people. He affirmed the commitment to preserving the Blue Flag status through continuous efforts.
He announced that, on the occasion of Ugadi, Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu would be launching a program to promote public participation in governance, highlighting the necessity of citizen involvement in administration. On this occasion, he extended special gratitude to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan for their efforts in promoting tourism development. Minister Durgesh also appreciated the work of APTDC Managing Director Amrapali Kata in advancing the tourism sector. Following this, he distributed life jackets to several individuals. The event was attended by MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao, APTDC Chairman Dr Nookasani Balaji, APTDC MD Amrapali Kata, Visakhapatnam District Joint Collector K. Mayur Ashok, tourism department officials, and other dignitaries.
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