Two Odisha beaches to be developed into world-class tourist spots

Bhubaneswar: The State government began spadework to develop Chandrabhaga beach on Puri-Konark Marine Drive and Talasari beach in Balasore into tourist places of international standards. During a high-level meeting through video conference, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik directed to develop one km area at Chandrabhaga.

As per the master plan, water sports, attractive footpath, cycle track, wooden benches on the beach, open theatre, special stage to view sunset, adventurous sports will be facilitated at Chandrabhaga. Also, modern waste management system, landscaping and solar lights will be installed at the beach. Visitors will be allowed to enjoy the facilities during day time only.

The Chief Minister asked officials to complete the development work at Chandrabhaga beach within one year.

Similarly, Patnaik said 2.4 km area at Talasari beach will be developed. Construction of star hotels and budget hotels will be encouraged, he added. Pavilion, rain shelter, kiosk, sitting islands, solar photo voltaic panels, amphi-theatres, restaurants and art and craft plazas will be constructed at Talasari beach.
In order to ensure safety of visitors, security will be tightened and life guards will be deployed at both the beaches.

Expressing satisfaction at the accordance of the blue flag standard tag to Puri beach, the Chief Minister thanked the Puri district administration and Tourism department. He asked the officials to develop Peer Jahania, Niladri mouth in Puri district and Haripur and Patisonapur beaches in Ganjam district in two years so that these beaches can get the Blue Flag Standard tag.

Among others, the Bhogarai MLA, OTDC Chairperson, Chief Secretary, Development Commissioner, 5T Secretary, Tourism Secretary, Forest and Environment Secretary, and senior officials were present during the meeting.