Eco-friendly tortoise beach to come up in Vizag

In a significant step towards environmental conservation, the Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation (GVMC) and the State Forest Department are collaborating to establish an eco-friendly turtle beach at Sagarnagar, along the Kailasagiri-Rushikonda stretch. The project, dubbed Tortoise Beach, will encompass 5 acres near Sagarnagar Beach and feature an Olive Ridley Turtle Conservation Centre, supported by a substantial investment of $15 crore.
Speaking to The Pioneer, Visakhapatnam Mayor Golagani Hari Venkata Kumari said: “This project reflects our commitment to environmental protection and sustainable development. Tortoise Beach will not only conserve Olive Ridley Turtles, a vulnerable species but also attract tourists and boost the local economy.”
In addition to the conservation centre, the project will include a range of amenities for visitors, including coffee shops, toilets, shacks, furniture, and a cutting-edge High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) floating bridge/walkway. Meticulous landscaping will also be undertaken to create a harmonious blend of nature and infrastructure. The $15 crore investment will be allocated towards the establishment of the conservation center, necessary infrastructure, and ongoing maintenance. The Tortoise Beach project is expected to significantly boost tourism in the region. The inclusion of well-planned facilities and attractions ensures a comprehensive experience for visitors, combining environmental education with recreational opportunities. “We are excited to partner with the GVMC on this important project,” said a representative of the State Forest Department. “Tortoise Beach will be a valuable asset to Visakhapatnam and a model for eco-friendly development.”
With the collaboration formalised, the project is now moving into the planning and execution phase. Stakeholders, including environmentalists, local communities, and wildlife enthusiasts, are eager to see the realization of this eco-friendly initiative.
The Tortoise Beach project stands as a testament to the power of collaborative efforts in promoting environmental sustainability.