Tamil Nadu’s Kovalam Beach in Chengalpattu District has been awarded the prestigious International Blue Flag Certification for the fifth consecutive year.
The Blue Flag is an internationally acclaimed eco-label awarded by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), Denmark, recognising beaches that meet 33 stringent global standards for water quality, safety, cleanliness, and sustainable infrastructure. The certification is crucial for promoting sustainable tourism and strengthening the blue economy.
Kovalam, which first achieved the Blue Flag status on Sept.21, 2021, was Tamil Nadu’s first certified beach. The annual renewal follows rigorous inspections to ensure continued compliance. The beach has witnessed a growing footfall of over 5.5 lakh visitors in 2024–25, supported by facilities like bamboo shade shelters, changing rooms, and floating wheelchairs for differently-abled visitors. Public safety is ensured by trained lifeguards and surveillance systems, with the beach operating from 6 am to 6 pm.
Encouraged by this sustained success, the Government of Tamil Nadu has initiated steps to secure Blue Flag certification for 10 other beaches statewide. Beaches nearing the final stages of evaluation include Marina Beach (Chennai), Silver Beach (Cuddalore), Kameshwaram Beach (Nagapattinam), and Ariyaman Beach (Ramanathapuram). The government also plans to expedite the process for several other major beaches across Cuddalore, Thoothukudi, Villupuram, and Chennai districts – Pallavakkam, Thiruvamiyur and Uthandi.
