The Rushikonda Beach has been selected for development under BEAMS (Beach Management Services), an integrated coastal management scheme of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of the Central government.
Representatives of the Integrated Coastal Management Society called on District Collector Pravin Kumar on Friday and explained to him on the measures required to be taken for the implementation of the project.
Project Consultant Sanjay said that the main objective of setting up BEAMS programme was to promote sustainable development of the coastal regions of India for the beach management authorities to strive to achieve high standards in Environmental Management, including cleanliness, solid waste management on beaches, Environmental Education, Safety and Security of beachgoers and bathing water quality standards.
The programme primarily focusses on ‘Beach rejuvenation plan’ that also means development of beach facilities, reduction and regulations of beach littering and undertaking day-to-day cleaning operations. It was also to ensure and control various types of pollution of beaches by effective solid waste management, utilisation and bring significant awareness on environment protection and sensitise beachgoers of ecosystems and biodiversity.
Highest marks
He said that the Centre has selected 13 beaches in nine States and four Union Territories for development with funds from the World Bank. A survey was conducted at the 13 beaches with regard to 33 parameters and Rushikonda secured the highest 45 marks. He said that if some more measures were taken, Rushikonda Beach could secure 80 marks and get the prestigious ‘blue fog’ certification from the Foundation for Environmental Education. He said the tenders for the project would be finalised soon. He explained to the Collector through a PowerPoint presentation that the Rushikonda Beach would be completed in a year.
The District Collector said that a Rushikonda Beach Management Committee would be formed with District Tourism Officer R. Purnima Devi as Nodal Officer. He sought early finalisation of tenders and commencement of the work.
