Andaman Islands Plans to Expand Blue Flag Beaches to Boost Eco-Tourism

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration is planning to extend the Blue Flag certification to more beaches in a bid to attract environmentally conscious tourists. Currently, Radhanagar Beach at Swaraj Dweep, also known as Havelock, holds this prestigious eco-label. A top official announced that five additional beaches have recently been evaluated, with the goal of securing five more Blue Flag beaches across the islands.

Blue Flag is an internationally recognised eco-label awarded to beaches that excel in safety, cleanliness, environmental sustainability, and accessibility. In India, only 12 beaches have received this certification, which is awarded by the Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

Chief Secretary Chandra Bhushan Kumar stated, "We are getting a good tourist footfall. Infrastructure upgrades are also progressing, with a new modern 500-passenger terminal jetty at Swaraj Dweep nearing completion."

"With a strong foundation already laid and ambitious plans in motion, the archipelago is fast emerging as one of India's most promising and diversified tourist destinations," he said.

The administration is also placing greater emphasis on cultural tourism. Kumar explained, “The Island Tourism Festival in December continue to attract visitors. Additionally, new initiatives like the Coconut Festival and a Book Fair, organised in collaboration with the National Book Trust, are helping to broaden the cultural appeal of the region.”

He expressed a desire for visitors to experience not only the breathtaking scenery and history but also the islands’ rich cuisine, traditions, and cultural diversity. Regarding infrastructure, he mentioned the upcoming airport at Diglipur in North Andaman, stating, “We aim to operate it for tourists by the next season. Improved connectivity will also facilitate future access to Great Nicobar, the southernmost part of the territory.”

On the sustainability front, the administration is working diligently to maintain cleanliness and environmental stewardship. Kumar highlighted, “Under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, solid waste collection is being managed in partnership with local panchayats, and a complete ban on plastic bottles under 2 litres has been implemented. A large marine clean-up drive, led by the forest department, has already removed over 50,000 kg of marine plastic waste.”

Regarding energy, efforts are underway to shift to cleaner power sources. “A 50 MW LNG plant, led by NTPC, is currently under development. Additionally, a grid link connecting South and North Andaman is in progress, with completion expected within two years, in collaboration with the Power Grid Corporation,” he stated.