PANJIM: After Miramar, Goa government is likely to nominate Agonda, Palolem and Benaulim beaches along with seven others for the Blue Flag Certification.
Last year, Miramar beach was amongst the 13 beaches across country nominated for Blue Flag Certification. However, following severe opposition, especially from fishing community, the State has till date not been able to prepare the beach for the certification.
Blue Flag certification from the Foundation for Education, Denmark, is a voluntary certification, where countries have to meet 33 criteria for chosen beaches. The focus of the certification is cleanliness and hygiene and protection of ecology of the certified beach stretch.
“Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate change (MOEF&CC) has requested State to nominate ten more beaches for the certification and submit the list by September 30. Accordingly, we have shortlisted so far Agonda, Palolem and Benaulim beaches from South Goa,” sources said, while adding that the State tourism dept will be consulted for nominating the beaches.
In a letter to Chief Secretary Parimal Rai on September 11, MOEF&CC secretary C K Mishra has asked the State to identify and prioritise at least ten beaches in their respective territories and inform the Ministry accordingly by September 30, to facilitate the drawing of a concrete road map for the programme. Letters have been sent to total 13 coastal States.
“I look forward to the support and cooperation of the State Government for the green initiative for enhancing the eco-tourism potential along the coastline of the country,” Mishra said in the letter.
The ministry has embarked upon an ambitious plan for ‘Blue Flag Certification’ in 100 identified beaches of the country during next five years.
Sources said the preliminary assessment of these 100 beaches for suitability would be done by November 30, while the finalisation of certification related activities and scope would be done by December 31.
