Mangaluru: Tannirbhavi Beach to maintain 'Blue Flag' standards, says Deputy Commissioner Muhilan

Mangaluru: Tannirbhavi Beach, selected for the prestigious ‘Blue Flag’ certification, must uphold the quality standards required for this title, urged Dakshina Kannada Deputy Commissioner, Mullai Muhilan.

Addressing a preliminary meeting on the beach’s development and maintenance at his office on Monday, DC Muhilan emphasized that the Blue Flag recognition is granted for a limited season and is renewed based on maintenance standards. He also warned that organizations failing to maintain the required standards would face replacement.

The development of Tannirbhavi Beach, which aligns with the Smart City project, is reportedly 90% complete. The DC underscored the importance of sustaining the beach as a tourist-centric, eco-friendly destination that supports the local economy. He noted that waste management facilities, solar installations, and other green initiatives have been implemented to promote sustainability.

Demand for Additional Facilities

The authorities have allowed visitors to remain at the main Tannirbhavi Beach until 9:30 PM, while the designated Blue Flag Beach permits access only until 6:30 PM. Participants at the meeting requested an extension of visiting hours for the Blue Flag Beach, improved parking facilities, better road connectivity, and enhanced lighting. DC Muhilan assured that these demands would be reviewed.

Tanker Terminal Construction Planned

Concerns were raised about traffic issues caused by tankers parked along the beachside roads and the nearby highway. In response, the DC informed that a tanker terminal is planned by the New Mangalore Port Authority (NMPA), and once implemented, roadside parking for tankers will be prohibited.

Tender Process for 10-Year Maintenance

A tender process for the beach’s 10-year maintenance contract is underway. DC Muhailan reported that 12.2 lakh tourists visited Tannirbhavi Beach in 2023, with an estimated 5,010 visitors per day expected during peak season. He announced that one acre of land would be designated for Blue Flag Beach parking, and a well-organized space would be made available for hosting various events. Chetan, a tourism department consultant, and Manikya, the department’s Deputy Director, were present at the meeting.

Positive Response

“Significant developments under the Blue Flag Beach and Smart City projects have attracted excellent responses, including from Mumbai,” noted DC Muhilan. “A 10-year tender will be issued for development and maintenance. Additionally, the Central Government has approved the construction of a bridge connecting Sultan Battery and Bengre, which will greatly benefit the Blue Flag Beach.”