In a significant boost for inclusive tourism, the picturesque Gopalpur beach in Odisha has been equipped with a range of disabled-friendly facilities. The project, completed just ahead of the upcoming beach festival, aims to make the seaside accessible to all visitors, particularly Persons with Disabilities (PwD).
New Amenities for Enhanced Accessibility
The government has installed several key amenities to transform the beach experience. The new infrastructure includes a sturdy ramp, a dedicated viewing platform, and two innovative solar-powered wheelchairs designed for easy mobility on the sand. Furthermore, a rest shed and a toilet complex have been constructed for convenience.
In a thoughtful addition, a children's park has been specifically set up for the children of disabled persons, ensuring a family-friendly environment. The Odisha Tourism Department allocated Rs 26 lakh for this developmental work, which was executed on the ground by the Berhampur Development Authority (BeDA).
Timeline and Official Statements
According to Manoj Patra, the city engineer in Berhampur Municipal Corporation (BeMC) who is also the in-charge at BeDA, almost all works are finished. The beach is expected to be formally opened for PwD visitors before the Gopalpur Beach Festival begins on January 22.
Patra clarified that an existing ramp, which had fallen into a dilapidated state, has been completely refurbished as part of the project. He also assured that all development strictly adhered to coastal zone regulations, ensuring no environmental norms were violated.
Fulfilling a Long-Standing Demand
The move has been welcomed by disability rights advocates who had long campaigned for better beach access. Niranjan Badatya, president of Mukta Akash, a local organization for PwD, expressed happiness at the government's initiative. The development addresses a persistent demand to make one of the region's prime tourist spots inclusive and welcoming for everyone.
This upgrade positions Gopalpur Beach as a model for accessible tourism in Odisha, setting a precedent for other destinations to follow. The integration of solar-powered solutions also highlights a step towards sustainable infrastructure.
