Chandrabhaga and Talasari to be on International Beaches Map

Two lesser known beaches of Odisha &ndash Chandrabhaga and Talasari (also Talshari) &ndash have been earmarked for development into international attractions and if all goes according to plan, the new look beaches are expected to be ready by October 2021.

Odisha chief minister Naveen Patnaik reviewed the development projects and issued directives for the same at a high level meeting recently, media reports said. Apart from developing tourist facilities, there will be appropriate safety and security arrangements, including life guards.

In 2018, little known Chandrabhaga Beach in Odisha won the prestigious international eco-label, Blue Flag, and became the first beach in Asia to win this certification. Located near the famous Konark sun temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the beach is known for its magnificent view at sunrise. It is also the site of the annual Chandrabhaga Mela, which is being held for many years, in honour of the Sun god.

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According to plans, Chandrabhaga beach, on the Puri-Konark Marine Drive, will have a host of adventure and water sports, cycle track, walking tracks, open theatre, children&rsquos park, and a gallery to watch the sunrise. Emphasis has been given on use of solar energy and waste management facilities. Nearly one km of the beach will be taken up under the project.

Talasari beach in Odisha&rsquos Balasore district, not far from the state&rsquos border with West Bengal, will also be made into a popular attraction with the building of tourist facilities such as good hotels and restaurants, rain shelters, sitting corners, etc. Nearly 2.4 km of the beach will be thus developed.

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Both places will also highlight the art and crafts of Odisha. Incidentally, Puri in Odisha was one of the eight Indian beaches which won the prestigious international eco-label, Blue Flag, last September.