Marina Beach in Chennai Resumes Operations with Blue Flag Designation: Outlining Enhancements for Tourists
Marina Beach, one of Chennai's most popular beaches, has received several upgrades as part of the Blue Flag certification project. These enhancements include separate restrooms for men and women, drinking water through automated dispensers, and eco-friendly sanitation blocks, among others [1][4].
Following the success of Marina Beach, Thiruvanmiyur, Palavakkam, and Uthandi beaches are slated to receive similar eco-friendly developments and upgraded amenities. The focus is on improving sanitation, safety, accessibility, environmental management, and sustainable tourism infrastructure, consistent with the 33 stringent criteria of the Blue Flag certification [5].
The planned enhancements for these beaches include the development of eco-friendly sanitation blocks, the installation of safe swimming zones, the implementation of solid waste management systems, accessibility improvements such as wheelchair-friendly pathways and equipment, and facilities to support environmental education and information for visitors [1][4].
The upgrades at Marina Beach have included features such as bamboo shade umbrellas, beach wheelchairs, meditation and reading rooms, outdoor gym and play areas (including facilities for children with disabilities), CCTV surveillance, first-aid centers, water vending machines, breastfeeding rooms, and a dedicated cleaning crew [1][4].
Similar standards are planned to be extended to the other Chennai beaches under the Blue Flag project [1][4]. The proposed works for the next phase of Marina Beach and other Chennai beaches will be funded under the Tamil Nadu: Strengthening Coastal Resilience and the Economy Project, supported by the World Bank [4].
Rs 6.02 crore has been allocated for the development of each beach in the next phase [4]. Seating areas and informational signboards meeting Blue Flag standards are also part of the upgrade for the next phase of Chennai beaches [1].
To ensure inclusivity and accessibility, Marina Beach is now equipped with 12 wheelchairs for persons with disabilities (PwDs), children's play areas, adaptive play and exercise equipment, a breastfeeding room, a first aid room, CCTV cameras, and a waiting room [1].
The Blue Flag certification is an international recognition granted to beaches that meet strict environmental, safety, and accessibility standards [2]. Kovalam beach in Chengalpattu was the first in Tamil Nadu to earn the Blue Flag status [3].
The Greater Chennai Corporation is preparing to launch Phase II of the Marina Beach enhancement project, covering the stretch from the Mahatma Gandhi statue to Nochi Nagar, near Karaneeswarar Koil Street [3]. The development plan for the next phase includes the installation of new toilets, changing rooms, solar-powered lighting, waste bins, lifeguard stations, and grey water treatment systems [3].
A Detailed Project Report is being prepared, and tenders are expected to be finalised soon for the next phase of Marina Beach development [3]. The construction for the next phase is expected to take seven months, after which the same private contractor will handle maintenance for an additional year [3].
Sources:
- The Hindu
- Blue Flag
- New Indian Express
- Times of India
- The New Indian Express
- The focus of the upcoming developments at Thiruvanmiyur, Palavakkam, and Uthandi beaches, similar to Marina Beach, involves improving environmental management, sanitation, and sustainable tourism infrastructure, following the Blue Flag certification criteria.
- To promote sustainable living and outdoor living, the next phase of Chennai beaches' upgrade includes the installation of seating areas and informational signboards that adhere to Blue Flag standards.
- In line with the Blue Flag project's objectives, the development plan for the next phase of Marina Beach and other Chennai beaches comprises the construction of eco-friendly sanitation blocks, installing solar-powered lighting, waste bins, and grey water treatment systems, and upgrading amenities for people with disabilities and children.
