Kasarkod (Karnataka): Kasarakod beach in Karnataka has bagged the coveted eco-label ‘Blue Flag’ from the international agency Foundation for Environment Education, Denmark.
It was following the efforts by the Department of Tourism and Uttara Kanada District administration, Kasarakod beach received the certification. The Blue Flag status is accorded after an inspection by Denmark's Environmental Education Foundation.
Blue Flag certification is granted to beaches, marinas and sustainable development operators which ensure strict environmental, educational, safety and accessibility standards are maintained. Besides, the Denmark-based agency asses 33 criteria which include bathing water quality, environmental management and conservation and safety and services in the beaches.
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Beach development and beach conditions are assessed before the certification is awarded. As per the standards, beaches should have chairs, drinking water, children's toys, lifeguards and most importantly, a separate staff for maintaining beach cleanliness.
Besides Kasarkod beach, Padubidre beach in Udupi also received the certification. The beach is clean and has the infrastructure to attract a large number of tourists. The recognition will help attract more number of international tourists.
Meanwhile, six other beaches in India were also awarded the Blue flag certification. Prime Minister Narendra Modi described the certification for eight beaches as a 'wonderful feat', adding the certification is the result of India's focus on protecting such spots and furthering the cause of sustainable development.
Earlier, golden beach in Puri, Odisha receive the coveted 'Blue Flag' tag after Chandrakala beach.
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