Visakhapatnam: The Citizens’ Association for Responsible Tourism (CART) has expressed significant concerns regarding increasing traffic congestion and declining conditions at Visakhapatnam’s renowned Blue Flag beach, Rushikonda. In a letter to Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, CART President PSS Prakash emphasized the urgent need for improved traffic management around this popular tourist site. A major concern is the closure of a vital southern access road, constructed in 2018 at a cost of Rs 2 crore during Naidu’s previous administration. He noted that this southern circular road, once referred to as a “beautiful necklace” encircling Rushikonda Hill, was essential for beach access under the Blue Flag certification initiative. However, it has been obstructed since the previous YSRC government’s term due to the construction of what the association describes as an “illegal mansion” on the hill. “The closure has led to severe traffic congestion over the past three years, especially impacting weekend visitors to the beach,” he stated. “Despite numerous appeals to former government officials, no measures have been implemented to resolve this issue.” CART also raised alarms about the potential loss of the beach’s esteemed Blue Flag certification due to deteriorating maintenance standards over the last five years. This certification is an internationally recognized eco-label that signifies adherence to high environmental and quality standards for beaches. The association has called for immediate action from the Chief Minister’s office to instruct the District Collector and relevant authorities to reopen the southern access road and enhance maintenance efforts to retain Blue Flag status. Additionally, CART has submitted a separate appeal to the Minister of Tourism regarding these pressing issues, highlighting the urgency for one of Visakhapatnam’s top tourist attractions.
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