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Recently, Minicoy Thundi beach and Kadmat beach, located in Lakshadweep, have received the International eco-label ‘Blue Flag’.
Key Points
- The Thundi Beach:
- One of the most pristine and picturesque beaches in the Lakshadweep archipelagoÂ
- White sand is lined by turquoise blue water of the lagoon.Â
- It is a paradise for swimmers and tourists alike.Â
- The Kadmat Beach:
- Popular with cruise tourists who visit the island for water sports.Â
- It is a paradise for nature lovers with its pearl white sand, blue lagoon waters, its moderate climate and friendly locals.
- Both the beaches have designated staff for beach cleanliness and maintenance; and for safety and security of swimmers.Â
- Both the beaches comply with all the 33 criteria as mandated by the Foundation for Environment Education (FEE).Â
About Blue Flag Certification ProgrammeÂ
- Started in France in 1985 and in areas outside of Europe in 2001.Â
- Globally recognised eco-label accorded on the basis of 33 stringent criteria in four major heads which are:-
- Environmental education and information,Â
- Bathing water quality,Â
- Environmental management andÂ
- Conservation and safety and services in the beaches.
- The certification is awarded to the cleanest beaches in the world by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
- It is accorded by the international jury composed of eminent members –Â
- United Nations Environment Programme(UNEP),Â
- United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO),Â
- Denmark-based NGO Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) andÂ
- International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
- Indian beaches in the Blue List:
- Shivrajpur-Gujarat,Â
- Ghoghla-Diu,Â
- Kasarkod and Padubidri-Karnataka,Â
- Kappad-Kerala,Â
- Rushikonda- Andhra Pradesh,Â
- Golden-Odisha,Â
- Radhanagar- Andaman and Nicobar,Â
- Kovalam in Tamil Nadu andÂ
- Eden in Pondicherry.
- With the new additions, the number of beaches certified under the Blue Flag Certification is twelve (12).
Source: LM
