Source: TH
Context: Rushikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam has regained its prestigious Blue Flag certification after temporary withdrawal due to compliance issues.
About Removal of Blue Flag:
- Organisation Responsible: The Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark, administers and monitors the Blue Flag certification globally.
- Procedure for Removal of Blue Flag:
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- In each country, a National Operator designated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is responsible for conducting scheduled and surprise control visits to Blue Flag beaches.
- The Centre for Environment Education is India’s national Blue Flag Beach operator.
- Control visits are conducted by National Operator to assess compliance with 33 environmental and safety criteria.
- Observations and recommendations are shared with local authorities.
- Temporary withdrawal is implemented if issues are unresolved within 10 days.
- After corrective actions, compliance is verified through audits before restoring the flag.
- In each country, a National Operator designated by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) is responsible for conducting scheduled and surprise control visits to Blue Flag beaches.
- Conditions for Removal:
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- Minor non-compliance: Single minor issue that does not affect health/safety; rectification required within 10 days.
- Multiple non-compliances: Two or three minor issues; temporary withdrawal until resolved.
- Major non-compliance: Any serious issue impacting visitor safety or environmental integrity leads to immediate and season-long withdrawal.
- Climatic or unforeseen emergencies can also lead to temporary suspension of the certification.
About Rushikonda Beach:
- Located in: Situated in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.
- Features:
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- Only Blue Flag-certified beach in Andhra Pradesh; first awarded in 2020.
- The beach boasts beautiful golden sands and clear waters, making it a popular spot for relaxation and swimming.
