Odisha has further cemented its leadership in sustainable coastal tourism with Sunapur and Puri beaches once again earning the coveted Blue Flag certification for 2025–26. Their renewed status places them among a select group of beaches worldwide known for exceptional environmental discipline and visitor-friendly coastal management.
What makes this achievement significant is not just the certification itself, but the consistency with which Odisha has upheld international benchmarks. Retaining a Blue Flag demands year-round vigilance — from water quality and safety to cleanliness, waste systems, and environmental education. Odisha’s continued success reflects a disciplined model of coastal governance that many destinations aim to emulate.
Behind the scenes, local authorities and community groups have worked in sync to protect fragile shoreline ecosystems. Enhanced waste handling, trained lifeguards, cleaner access points, and regular scientific checks have played a decisive role. Environmental outreach programs and participation from coastal residents have ensured that conservation becomes a shared responsibility rather than a top-down mandate.
For travellers, the certification serves as a trusted indicator of quality. Sunapur and Puri now rank among India’s most dependable beach experiences — clean, safe, and consciously managed. Their renewed Blue Flag status strengthens Odisha’s appeal to discerning domestic tourists as well as international visitors increasingly choosing destinations with a sustainability edge.
The impact extends to local livelihoods too. Eco-tourism initiatives, homestays, nature trails, and responsible beach activities are creating steady income streams for coastal communities. The certification acts as an economic catalyst, proving that environmentally sound tourism can deliver tangible benefits for people living along the shoreline.
By holding on to the Blue Flag distinction, Odisha has once again demonstrated what sustained effort, community engagement, and global best practices can achieve. Sunapur and Puri stand today not just as beaches, but as living examples of how coastal tourism can thrive while safeguarding nature for the future.
