Three Maharashtra beaches receive international Blue Flag certification
Ladghar, Guhagar, and Shrivardhan have earned the eco-label for the 2026-27 season, marking the first time the state has secured the recognition.
Ladghar and Guhagar in Ratnagiri district, along with Shrivardhan in Raigad district, have been awarded the international Blue Flag certification for the 2026-27 season, according to reports by The Hindu and The Indian Express. This marks the first time that beaches in Maharashtra have secured this global eco-label.
The certification is awarded to locations that comply with international standards regarding water quality, environmental conservation, visitor safety, cleanliness, and sustainable tourism management. Across India, 22 locations have received the recognition for the upcoming season, consisting of 13 renewed certifications and nine new additions. Maharashtra accounts for three of these new recipients.
Environment and Climate Change Minister Pankaja Munde said the award provides global recognition of the state's work in cleanliness and environmental conservation. She stated that the recognition would provide the coastline a new identity on the global tourism map and could support the economy and local employment.
Ratnagiri Collector Manuj Jindal described the certification as a landmark achievement for the state. The state government attributed the success to the coordinated work of the Environment and Climate Change Department, the Tourism Department, district administrations, and local bodies including gram panchayats and Beach Management Committees.
The official Blue Flags are being transported from the Netherlands to the state Environment and Climate Change Department. The Blue Flag season for the three certified beaches is scheduled to begin on November 15.