Government intends to develop existing ‘Blue flag’ beaches: K.J. George

Minister for Energy K.J. George visited Tannirbhavi Blue Flag Beach in Mangaluru on September 6, 2026. | Photo Credit: H S MANJUNATH Instead of opening new ‘Blue flag’ beaches, the State Government intends to fully develop the existing Blue flag beaches in Tannirbhavi and other places along the coast of Karnataka, said Energy and Tourism Minister K.J. George to reporters in Mangaluru on Sunday (September 6, 2026).“Yes, we intend to open new Blue Flag beaches. But we need to fully develop the existing ones,” said Mr. George.In a recent meeting, the Minister said that the officials expressed the need for good-quality shacks that suit the requirements of the beach. Tourism Secretary Ram Prasath Manohar and other officials were discussing it. The biggest problem with developing Karnataka Coastal Tourism, Mr. George said, was the Coastal Regulatory Zone norms. “In Kerala, they have managed it to some extent. For us, we can do certain things, including strengthening of roads [to the beaches], as per the CRZ.”The Deputy Commissioners, local bodies and related agencies will be involved in this study. Local leaders will also be consulted. The suggestions will be put forth before the cabinet, which is expected to have a sitting in Mangaluru shortly.Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is also serious about developing coastal tourism and Malnad tourism. Mr. Manohar was doing a detailed study that will look at Cruise tourism to allow cruise passengers to spend more time in Mangaluru and neighbouring areas. It was also looking at building shipyards and having houseboats. “All this is part of the study. Nothing is finalised yet,” Mr. George said.While ruling out the opening of Casinos on the beaches, Mr. George said the State Government was looking at avenues that will provide more employment and business opportunities for locals on the beaches. The Government would consider opening beaches beyond 7 p.m. The dispute with shop owners at Tannirbhavi Blue Flag Beach and the district administration over revenue sharing will be resolved shortly in an amicable manner. KARNATAKA/ MANGALURU/ 06.09.2026: A view of Tannirbhavi Blue flag Beach in Mangaluru on September 6, 2026. PHOTO:MANJUNATH HS / THE HINDU | Photo Credit: H S MANJUNATH Homestays should run as per the norms laid down in the Government’s policy, which was released recently. The Government will not allow homestays to run like a lodge, for which separate permission should be taken. The Government will support initiatives of private hospitals in Dakshina Kannada in health tourism sector, the Minister said.Mr. George went around the Tannirbhavi Blue flag beach and then visted the Tannirbhavi main beach. Published - September 06, 2026 04:06 pm IST