In a proud moment for eco-tourism in India, Odisha’s Sunapur and Puri beaches have once again achieved the prestigious Blue Flag Certification for the year 2025–26. This international honour reaffirms their position among the cleanest and most environmentally sustainable beaches globally.
What is Blue Flag Certification?
The Blue Flag is a globally recognised eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) based in Denmark. It is granted to beaches, marinas, and sustainable boating tourism operators that meet 33 stringent criteria covering,
- Water quality
- Environmental management
- Safety standards
- Eco-education and awareness
Only those coastal destinations maintaining high environmental and safety standards consistently are eligible for this certification.
Odisha’s Beach Success Story
Sunapur Beach (Ganjam District)
- Third consecutive year of certification
- Known for its pristine sand, river-bay confluence, and community-led conservation efforts
- Eco-sensitive design, backed by regular waste audits, water quality checks, and beach cleanups
Puri Golden Beach
- Seventh time in a row to earn Blue Flag recognition
- One of India’s most famous pilgrimage and tourist beaches
- Features dedicated bathing zones, smart waste disposal systems, and high safety standards
India’s National Standing in 2025–26
- 13 beaches in India recognized in the latest Blue Flag list
- 12 received full certification, including Sunapur and Puri from Odisha
- Reinforces India’s push towards sustainable coastal tourism and eco-certification
Sustainable Tourism & Local Participation
Officials credited the success to local participation, stringent implementation of waste management systems, and investment in green tourism infrastructure. At Sunapur, the efforts of local administration and villagers in maintaining the ecosystem have been especially noteworthy.
Both beaches feature,
- Trained lifeguards and paramedics
- Wheelchair-accessible pathways
- Zero liquid discharge waste systems
- CCTV monitoring and safety surveillance
- Environmental education kiosks
These facilities ensure that visitors enjoy a clean, safe, and informative beach experience.
Static Facts
- Sunapur Beach: Blue Flag certified for the third consecutive year
- Puri Golden Beach: Blue Flag certified for the seventh year
- Blue Flag Programme: Overseen by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE)
- Criteria Covered: 33 points including water quality, waste, safety, and awareness
- Blue Flag Beaches in India 2025–26: 13 recognised, 12 fully certified
- Sunapur Location: Confluence of the Bahuda River and the Bay of Bengal
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