Mangaluru: Karnataka, along with two other coastal states, is hoping that one of its beaches is selected for Blue Flag certification. Last year, eight beaches across the country hoisted the international Blue Flags in virtual mode. It is learnt the ministry of environment, forest and climate change may select only three beaches this year due to time constraints.
Dr Dinesh Kumar Y K, DCF, and in-charge regional director environment told TOI, “Since Kasarkod Beach in Uttara Kannada and Padubidri Beach in Udupi have already been certified, officials have decided to select a beach from Dakshina Kannada district. The district also has an international airport. Currently, two beaches—a stretch near TannirBhavi and Iddya Beach—have been proposed by the state for Blue Flag certification. The DC and the MLA have committed to provide funds for the peripheral works.
“Since a large number of tourists visit Dakshina Kannada, it is important the district has a Blue Flag beach. The detailed project report for both the beaches have been submitted. The state has prepared a proposal for the development of 16 beaches, and the government was keen on taking up at least 10 beaches. The state government had prepared a DPR for six beaches early this year,” he said.
The government in its pursuit of sustainable development of the coastal regions, embarked upon a highly acclaimed and flagship programme Beach Environment and Aesthetics Management Services (BEAMS) under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) project. This was aimed at striving for the coveted international eco-label Blue Flag, accorded by The Foundation of Environment Education, Denmark.
The objective of the BEAMS programme is to abate pollution in coastal waters and beaches, promote sustainable development of beach amenities and facilities and protect and conserve coastal ecosystems and natural resources in accordance with coastal environment norms and regulations. The government has a target of having 100 Blue Flag beaches.
Dr Dinesh Kumar Y K, DCF, and in-charge regional director environment told TOI, “Since Kasarkod Beach in Uttara Kannada and Padubidri Beach in Udupi have already been certified, officials have decided to select a beach from Dakshina Kannada district. The district also has an international airport. Currently, two beaches—a stretch near TannirBhavi and Iddya Beach—have been proposed by the state for Blue Flag certification. The DC and the MLA have committed to provide funds for the peripheral works.
“Since a large number of tourists visit Dakshina Kannada, it is important the district has a Blue Flag beach. The detailed project report for both the beaches have been submitted. The state has prepared a proposal for the development of 16 beaches, and the government was keen on taking up at least 10 beaches. The state government had prepared a DPR for six beaches early this year,” he said.
The government in its pursuit of sustainable development of the coastal regions, embarked upon a highly acclaimed and flagship programme Beach Environment and Aesthetics Management Services (BEAMS) under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) project. This was aimed at striving for the coveted international eco-label Blue Flag, accorded by The Foundation of Environment Education, Denmark.
The objective of the BEAMS programme is to abate pollution in coastal waters and beaches, promote sustainable development of beach amenities and facilities and protect and conserve coastal ecosystems and natural resources in accordance with coastal environment norms and regulations. The government has a target of having 100 Blue Flag beaches.
