Maharashtra Nominates Seven Beaches for Prestigious Blue Flag Certification
The Maharashtra government has nominated seven beaches across four coastal districts for the internationally recognized Blue Flag certification, a prestigious eco-label awarded to beaches that meet stringent environmental, safety, and sustainability standards.
What is Blue Flag Certification?
The Blue Flag certification is awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark, based on 33 strict parameters across four key categories:
- Environmental Education & Information – Awareness programs and signage.
- Water Quality – Regular testing to ensure safe bathing conditions.
- Environmental Management – Waste disposal, coastal conservation, and pollution control.
- Safety & Services – Lifeguards, first aid, accessibility for disabled visitors.
Next Steps in the Certification Process
The nominated beaches have been submitted to the Centre for Environment Education (CEE), the national operator under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). A national jury will now conduct site audits to assess compliance. If approved, the beaches will be evaluated by an international jury comprising representatives from:
- United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
- United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Proposed Blue Flag Beaches in Maharashtra
The selected beaches in Maharashtra for Blue Flag Certification include Medha (Sindhudurg), Guhagar, Nivti, and Karde (Ratnagiri), Shrivardhan and Kashid (Raigad), and Dahanu (Palghar).
A senior official from the Maharashtra Environment Ministry stated, “We are working diligently to secure the Blue Flag tag, which will enhance beach management and promote sustainable tourism. We hope to achieve certification within a year.”
Challenges & Benefits of Blue Flag Status
While Maharashtra’s beaches are naturally pristine, meeting Blue Flag criteria remains challenging, particularly in maintaining water quality and preventing industrial effluents from entering the sea. However, officials believe certification will:
- Boost sustainable tourism
- Improve infrastructure (clean water, accessibility, food zones)
- Enhance marine ecosystem protection
- Increase accountability among local communities
Once awarded, the Blue Flag tag requires annual audits, and non-compliance can lead to suspension or revocation.
List of Already Certified Blue Flag Beaches in India
Yes! India currently has 12 Blue Flag-certified beaches, including:
- Golden Beach (Odisha)
- Shivrajpur Beach (Gujarat)
- Kappad Beach (Kerala)
- Radhanagar Beach (Andaman & Nicobar)
- Kovalam Beach (Tamil Nadu)
- Eden Beach (Puducherry)
- Minicoy Thundi & Kadmat Beach (Lakshadweep)
Conclusion
Maharashtra’s push for Blue Flag certification reflects its commitment to eco-friendly tourism and coastal conservation. If successful, these seven beaches will join India’s elite list of globally recognized sustainable beaches, setting a benchmark for environmental responsibility and world-class amenities.
