Balasore, Jan. 29: Chief minister Naveen Patnaik today inaugurated a statue of former President APJ Abdul Kalam on Chandipur beach.

Naveen was on a beach-hopping spree today as he moved from one sea beach to another in the district to inaugurate beach festivals and other projects.

The statue of the former President was installed at the initiative of the Chandipur Golden Beach Festival Committee in a public-private partnership mode. Local industrial bodies extended financial assistance, while the district administration also lent its support. The 8-ft statue, made of black granite stone, was made by the artisans of Soro.

"The total height, including the pedestal, is 14 ft. The entire project cost around Rs 11 lakh," said committee secretary Bismoy Mohanty.

Local MLA and festival committee president Jiban Pradip Dash said: "Kalam had spent a significant part of his life in Chandipur to give shape to the Integrated Test Range. He had special affection for Chandipur."

From Chandipur beach, Naveen flew to Dagara beach around 70kms away and laid the foundation stone of a circuit house. He also inaugurated the beach festival there.

"We are developing infrastructure on Dagara beach. The region would experience growth with the beach's development," he said. "We have prepared a roadmap for this beach. The government has sanctioned Rs 1.66 crore. The beach development will enhance employment opportunities of the local people," said local MP R.K. Jena. From Dagara beach, Naveen flew to Bhograi and inaugurated the Talsari beach festival.

Tourism minister Ashok Chandra Panda, who accompanied the chief minister, said: "More funds will be provided for development of Chandipur and other beaches."