Fri Jul 04 03:23:46 UTC 2025: **Summary:**

Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh inspected Rushikonda Blue Flag Beach in Visakhapatnam, assuring improved facilities and increased tourist footfall. The Blue Flag certification, temporarily withdrawn due to maintenance complaints, has been restored. The Minister pledged beautification efforts costing ₹24 lakh, addressed vendor and lifeguard concerns, and announced the revival of cruise liner operations. He emphasized cleanliness and collaboration between officials and the public to maintain the Blue Flag status.

**News Article:**

**Rushikonda Beach Gears Up for Tourist Boom Following Blue Flag Restoration**

**Visakhapatnam, India – July 4, 2025** – Rushikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam is set to attract a surge in international tourists after its Blue Flag certification was restored. Tourism Minister Kandula Durgesh personally inspected the beach on Thursday, outlining plans for enhanced facilities and beautification.

The Blue Flag designation, awarded by the Denmark-based Foundation for Environment Education (FEE), was temporarily revoked due to concerns about maintenance standards. However, Minister Durgesh assured that these issues have been addressed and the certification reinstated.

“We are committed to providing a world-class experience for visitors to Rushikonda Beach,” Minister Durgesh stated. “Greater coordination between officials and the people will ensure proper upkeep of the amenities, and efforts are underway to beautify the beach further.”

Key initiatives include a ₹24 lakh investment in beach beautification, addressing concerns raised by vendors and lifeguards, and the introduction of double-decker bus services along the Beach Road. Minister Durgesh also announced the revival of cruise liner operations, with plans for four trips until September and efforts to extend service throughout the year.

“The Blue Flag certification is a major achievement that will attract tourists from across the globe,” said Minister Durgesh. “With improved washrooms, changing rooms, and grey water treatment, Rushikonda Beach will become a must-visit destination for international travellers.”

He urged officials and visitors alike to prioritize cleanliness and hygiene to safeguard the beach’s Blue Flag status in the long term. Bheemunipatnam MLA Ganta Srinivasa Rao, District Collector M.N. Harendhira Prasad, and GVMC Commissioner Ketan Garg accompanied the Tourism Minister during the inspection, demonstrating a unified effort to boost tourism in the region.

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