Infrastructure Facilities, Pollution Abatement & Safety/Surveillance Services for Pilot Beaches of India

A “Clean” Beach is the primary indicator of the Coastal environmental quality & management. However, the coastal region in India is highly susceptible to litter accumulation. The presence of such debris not only affects the aesthetic appeal of beaches negatively but also reduces their recreational (tourism) value drastically.

SICOM in its pursuit of “Sustainable Development” of the coastal regions of India embarked upon a highly acclaimed & flagship program “BEAMS” (Beach Environment & Aesthetics Management Services). This was aimed at striving for the coveted International eco-label "Blue flag”, accorded by The Foundation of Environment Education, FEE Denmark.

The objective of the BEAMS program is to abate pollution in coastal waters & beaches, promote sustainable development of beach amenities/ facilities, protect & conserve coastal ecosystems & natural resources and encourage local authorities & stakeholders to strive and maintain high standards of cleanliness, hygiene, safety and security for beachgoers in accordance with coastal environment norms & regulations. This program promotes beach tourism and recreation in absolute harmony with nature; is unique in that sense.

During the month of October 2020; 8 beaches of India, spread across five states and two union territories, have been awarded the “BLUE FLAG” Certification by an International Jury comprising of eminent members viz UNEP, UNWTO, FEE, IUCN and has also been awarded a 3rd Prize by the International Jury under the “International Best Practices” for pollution control in coastal regions.
The beaches that have been awarded the ‘BLUE FLAG” are Shivrajpur (Dwarka-Gujarat), Ghoghla (Diu), Kasarkod and Padubidri (Karnataka), Kappad (Kerala), Rushikonda (AP), Golden (Puri-Odisha) and Radhanagar (A&N Islands).