The scenic Sonapur Beach, located 30 km from Berhampur in Ganjam district, has been closed to tourists for annual maintenance, officials confirmed.
The beach, which spans 800 meters along the confluence of the Bahuda River and Bay of Bengal, received Blue Flag certification in 2023 for meeting 33 international standards of environmental safety and accessibility.
According to Divisional Forest Officer Sunny Khokkar, the closure — initiated a week ago — is critical to retaining the eco-label and improving tourist facilities ahead of the peak season. Maintenance aligns with reduced footfall during the May-June summer window, ensuring minimal disruption.
The beach is equipped with:
- Wheelchair access
- Zero liquid waste discharge systems
- Lifeguard towers
- Solar lighting and CCTV
- First-aid stations
- Eco-friendly bamboo structures
The Foundation for Environment Education (FEE) in Denmark awards the Blue Flag to beaches that demonstrate sustainable tourism and conservation. Post-maintenance, operations will resume under the Vana Surakshya Samiti (VSS).
Authorities are optimistic that improved amenities and better marketing will enhance visitor numbers and benefit local communities. A reopening date will be announced soon.
