The golden beach at Puri has bagged the coveted blue flag certification from the international jury for its effort to curb pollution, maintain cleanliness and provide sustainable amenities to tourists.

The global eco-label “blue flag” certification is given to shorelines under the Beach Environment and Aesthetic Management System (BEAMS).

Hailing this unique achievement of Puri beach, chief minister Naveen Patnaik tweeted, “Glad to share that the Golden Beach of Puri has received coveted Blue Flag certification by FEE Denmark by conforming to the stringent environmental norm and ensuring world class sustainable tourist amenities. The renowned eco-label will add to the charm of the World Heritage City.”

President of Beach Protection Council, Jagannath Bastia said, “Puri sea beach and seven other beaches of country — Shivrajpur (Gujarat), Ghoghla (Diu), Kasarkod (Karnataka), Padubidri (Karnataka), Kappad (Kerala), Rushikonda ( Andhra) and Radhanagar ( Andaman) have bagged International Blue Flag certificate from Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark. It will help attract more tourists, especially foreigners and also boost the development of beach tourism in Odisha. The state government should take steps for development of the entire stretch of 8km long golden beach of Puri and should not confine itself to promoting only a particular patch of the beach.”

Earlier in September, the Centre had recommended the Puri breach for blue flag certification.