Record Indian beaches get coveted 'blue flag' certification

Eight beaches in India spread across five states and two union territories, have been awarded the prestigious Blue Flag certification.

The certification is awarded on the basis of stringent environmental, educational, safety-related and access-related criteria.

Let's take a look:

Located 11 km from Dwarka in Gujarat, Shivrajpur beach received the globally recognised eco-label accorded by an in international agency 'Foundation for Environment Education'.

Ghoghla Beach is located close to village Ghoghla and is 631 km away from the main city of Diu. The beach is extremely clean and also one of the less explored beaches of Diu.

 

Kasarkod beach near Honnavar in Uttara Kannada and Padubidri beach near Udupi have grey water treatment plants, solid waste management plants, disabled-friendly equipment to enable them to enter seawater, seating arrangements, clean drinking water, washroom, changing room, bathing facility, disabled-friendly and general toilets, parking facilities, solar power plant, solar lighting, and the like.

This beach near Koyilandy in Kozhikode is dotted with rocks and small hills that add to its beauty. It also sees migratory birds occasionally. The one-kilometre beach was revamped last year, including beautification and upgrading of safety, construction of jogging track, washrooms of international standards, rain shelters, and installation of solar panels.

This beach is located on the coast of Bay of Bengal in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, and attracts tourists from all over the country every year. 

 

The popular Puri beach features a stretch of golden sand dotted with food stalls. It is extremely popular among pilgrims who come to visit the nearby Jagannath temple. Visitors can take a stroll or collect seashells while relishing seafood.

Comprising clear turquoise waters and lush forests, Radhanagar in Havelock Island, Andaman, is deemed one of the best beaches in the country.