No entry fee to be collected from visitors at Rushikonda Beach in Visakhapatnam: IT Minister

Tuesday, July 11, 2023

I.T Minister Gudivada Amarnath stated that no admission fee will be charged to tourists visiting Rushikonda Beach, despite fierce resistance from opposition party members and various NGOs.

The Minister acknowledged that the Central Government has proposed charging tourists, but the State Government had no such intentions.

Speaking to the media, Mr Amarnath stated that the Central Government has recommended charging an admission fee at ‘Blue Flag’ beaches in order to further develop these beaches with all services using the cash earned.

However, Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy and YSRCP North Andhra Coordinator Y.V. Subba Reddy reviewed it and opted to fund the costs rather than collecting from tourists.

“Either the State Government, Tourism department or AP Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) will bear the expense and develop the tourist spot, but will not collect any charges from the tourists,” he added.

A Tourism Department notice two days ago announced that visitors to Rushikonda Beach will be charged a fee of Rs 20, with children under the age of ten admitted free. The payments, according to the officials, are being collected to fund the upkeep and provision of improved amenities at the area. Tourists can use the drinking water, bathrooms, swimming arena, children’s park, and open gym, according to tourism officials.

Since the announcement, representatives of the Telugu Desam Party, the CPI(M), and different resident welfare organisation members have criticised it and requested that the government reverse its decision.

« Back to Page

• Chiva-Som Debuts ‘A Taste Of Tranquility’ in Mumbai: A Fusion of Wellness and Gastronomy Exclusive Event Unveiling

• InterContinental Hotels Group & Resorts Accelerates Expansion in India set to Double Presence with 100 New Hotels in Five Years

• How Does the New Cascade Schengen Visa Ease European Travel for International Travelers? Explained

• Indian students will now enjoy new rules in Europe with Schengen Visa

• Sirius India Airlines boosts luxury air tourism