Berhampur: The Sunapur beach, 40km from here, which is famous as a popular picnic spot situated on the mouth of Bahuda river in Ganjam district, is reeling from official neglect.

"Picnickers throng the Sunapur beach throughout the year. From December 15 to January 15, the inflow is sizeable," said president of the Swachha Bharat Team and the Youth and Social Welfare Organisation of Sunapur Amulya Behera.

"This spot attracts the picnickers most as the beach is picturesque with a large number of casuarina trees. People can enjoy the beauty of a nearby river mouth. The newly constructed bridge has made the beach accessible," he said.

Though the beach has the potential to attract more tourists, it is yet to be tapped. "There is no urinal and toilet, chairs and pathways among the casuarina trees. Out of the five tube wells installed there, three have become defunct. The picnickers are facing inconveniences during their stay at Sunapur," he said.

Besides, many criminals have of late made the beach their haven, taking advantage of its desolated locale. "We can tackle this problem, but marine police need to patrol the area," he said.

The organisation's president said the site could be developed into a revamped picnic spot with lots of amenities. Construction of a Panthanivas at Sunapur and boating facilities in the Bahuda river will also help attract tourists, he feels.

"Now, the garbage management has become the greatest problem on the beach. Despite our repeated requests, the picnickers are throwing paper plates, polythene bags and other garbage at the spot, littering the site," said Sunapur panchayat samiti member Debahari Behera.

Members of the Swachha Bharat Team and the organisation are cleaning the spot and the beach every Sunday. "But, we must make the picnickers aware about the pollution," said Debahari.