Sunapur and Puri Beaches Reaffirm Blue Flag Status for 2025–26 Strengthening Odisha Eco-Tourism Leadership

Odisha’s Sunapur and Puri Beaches Reaffirm Blue Flag Status for 2025–26

Odisha has strengthened its reputation as a leader in sustainable coastal management with Sunapur Beach in Ganjam district and Puri’s Golden Beach once again earning the prestigious Blue Flag Certification for 2025–26. This global eco-label, awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark , recognises beaches that maintain world-class standards in cleanliness, environmental protection and tourist safety.

Consistent Global Recognition

Sunapur Beach secured the certification for the third consecutive year , reflecting its rapid transformation into an eco-friendly tourist hotspot. Puri’s Golden Beach, meanwhile, achieved the distinction for the seventh year in a row , reinforcing its status as one of India’s best-managed coastal destinations. Their repeated recognition demonstrates Odisha’s sustained success in meeting international benchmarks considered among the most rigorous for beach management.

Meeting 33 Blue Flag Criteria

Both beaches met the Blue Flag programme’s 33 stringent criteria , which include water quality testing, solid-waste disposal systems, disaster management plans, lifeguard readiness, environmental education signage and maintenance of hygienic tourist facilities. India has a total of 13 recognised beaches for 2025–26, with 12 fully certified , including these two from Odisha.

Sustainable Tourism and Community Role

Officials highlighted that the Blue Flag model supports eco-tourism by promoting clean bathing zones, accessible infrastructure and safe recreational spaces. Sunapur’s ability to maintain certification stems from strong community involvement and its ecological importance at the confluence of the Bahuda River and the Bay of Bengal , a site rich in biodiversity.

World-Class Facilities

Sunapur’s certified 800-metre stretch includes wheelchair-friendly access points, zero liquid discharge systems, lifeguard towers, trained paramedics and CCTV surveillance. Oversight by a dedicated district management committee ensures continuous monitoring and adherence to global norms.

Exam Points

• Sunapur Beach: Blue Flag for 3rd consecutive year .

• Puri Golden Beach: Blue Flag for 7th consecutive year .

• Blue Flag certification covers 33 environmental and safety criteria .

• India has 13 recognised beaches for 2025–26; 12 fully certified .

• Certification by FEE, Denmark .