Honnavar: There are ample opportunities for the development of eco-friendly tourism in the Uttara Kannada district which is covered by forest area and many beaches in the district are attractive tourist spots, said State Pollution Control Board Chairman Brijesh Kumar. 

He was speaking at the environmental education programme jointly organised by the Union Government, the district administration, Tourism and Forest Departments on the eco-beach of Kasarakoda here on Tuesday. 

He said, Kasarakoda eco-beach has got blue flag certification for a year. The beach should be maintained properly to get the blue flag certification continuously and to draw the attention of tourists worldwide, he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Deputy Commissioner Mullai Muhilan said, Kasarakoda beach got the blue flag certification due to the efforts of local people and administration. 

Deputy Conservator of Forest Ganapati K said, the sea has a variety of biodiversity. The Forest Department intends to impart environmental education along with educating on tourism.

ZP CEO Priyanga M, Tourism Department Deputy Director Pratik, and others were present. 

Indian Institute of Science researcher M D Subhash Chandran, driver Anant Naik and beach guard Sandesh Fernandes were felicitated on the occasion.