Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (DC)

Udupi, Aug 2: Padubidri beach has become the only beach in Karnataka to get the 'Blue Flag’ certification after being chosen under the Beach Management Services Scheme (BEAMS) of the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Padubidri beach located at Padubidri village in Udupi district which is one among 13 beaches selected across the nation, will get a major facelift at a cost of Rs 8 crore under the BEAMS scheme. One beach each in the coastal states and Union territories have been selected by the ministry under the Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM) plan. Under the scheme, infrastructure facilities will be provided on a pilot basis.

Under the scheme, the beach will get facilities such as bio-toilet blocks, changing rooms with shower panels, CCTV cameras for 24 x 7 surveillance, watch towers, sit-out umbrellas with lounge chairs, jogging track with outdoor gym and children’s play area for recreational activities. The scheme also intends to provide purified drinking water, dustbins, seating benches, wheel chairs for differently-abled and composting and recycling of solid waste etc.

Services of professional beach cleaners, security guards, lifeguards and first aid attendants will be available in addition to the facilities with an intention to maintain cleanliness at the beach.

Tender process has been completed already and a Gurgaon-based company has been given the contract which will maintain the beach for two years.

Deputy Commissioner Priyanka Mary Francis and Assistant Director of Tourism Anita Bhaskar said that the beach will have a annual turnover of RS 100 crore and will be recognised at the international level attracting tourists from various corners.