Ladghar Beach, in Dapoli, Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra. (Photo: iStock)
\n\nThree beaches on Maharashtra’s Konkan coast have been awarded the international Blue Flag for the 2026-27 season. They are Ladghar and Guhagar in Ratnagiri district and Shrivardhan in Raigad district.
\n\nAccording to the government, this is the first time Maharashtra has secured international recognition under the programme.
\n\nThe Blue Flag is an eco-label run by the Foundation for Environmental Education, a Denmark-based non-profit. "In order to qualify for the Blue Flag, a comprehensive set of environmental, educational, safety and accessibility criteria must be met. Sites and operators must demonstrate compliance with applicable criteria and maintain compliance during the award period," states the website of Blue Flag.
\n\nGuhagar Beach in Ratnagiri district of Maharashtra's Konkan region. (Photo: iStock)
\n\nThe award is valid for one season and has to be renewed every year. The selection is made by an international jury representing the UN Environment Programme, the UN World Tourism Organisation, the Foundation for Environmental Education and the International Union for Conservation of Nature. India joined the programme in 2018.
\n\nThe three beaches were found to meet international standards on environmental conservation, cleanliness, water quality, biodiversity protection, tourist safety, infrastructure and sustainable tourism…
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/lifestyle
