Chennai To Get Three New Blue Flag Beaches And Marina Upgrade
Chennai is embarking on a significant coastal revitalisation project, with the Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) initiating efforts to elevate four of its prominent beaches – Thiruvanmaiyur, Palavakkam, Uthandi, and Marina Beach near the swimming pool – to the prestigious Blue Flag certification. This move signifies a major commitment to environmental stewardship, sustainable tourism, and enhancing public access to cleaner, safer shorelines. The initiative aims to transform these coastal stretches into world-class eco-tourism destinations, fostering a harmonious relationship between urban development and ecological preservation.
The ambitious project on Marina Beach, particularly around the swimming pool area, is nearing completion, with new facilities expected to be inaugurated shortly. This pilot endeavour has garnered positive public reception, encouraging civic authorities to replicate the model across other beaches. The Blue Flag certification, an international eco-label, demands stringent adherence to criteria across environmental education, bathing water quality, environmental management, and safety services. By pursuing this standard, Chennai aims to not only attract more tourists but also to cultivate a culture of responsible interaction with its vital coastal ecosystems.
The project areas, spanning approximately 10-20 acres on each beach, are being carefully selected by Tamil Nadu Sustainably Harnessing Ocean Resources and Blue Economy (TN-SHORE) and the Department of Environment and Climate Change, in strict compliance with Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) norms. The completed section at Marina Beach already showcases a host of eco-friendly amenities, including bamboo recliners with umbrellas, surveillance cameras, children’s play areas, open-air gym equipment, and accessibility features like beach wheelchairs, promoting gender-neutral access and enjoyment for all visitors. The integration of sustainable materials like bamboo further reinforces the commitment to a zero net carbon footprint.
While the broader public has welcomed the enhanced facilities and recreational opportunities, the project has also brought to the fore concerns from local fishing communities. Historically, these communities have faced challenges stemming from urban development on coastal lands, impacting their traditional livelihoods and living spaces. Their voices highlight the critical need for inclusive planning that addresses existing vulnerabilities, such as rainwater stagnation in low-lying areas, and ensures that development projects genuinely benefit all stakeholders, fostering truly equitable cities. Addressing these concerns is paramount for the long-term success and social acceptance of such large-scale initiatives.
The civic body has already floated tenders for the works on the three additional beaches, with a total estimated cost of ₹24.80 crore. These investments are part of a larger state vision to strengthen coastal infrastructure and promote a sustainable blue economy. By enhancing the environmental quality and public amenities of its beaches, Chennai aims to establish itself as a leading example of responsible coastal management, offering both residents and visitors a pristine, accessible, and safe environment that contributes positively to the city’s ecological and social well-being.
