Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh tourism department plans to introduce entry fee at popular beaches, including Suryalanka, Ramayapatnam, Rushikonda, Kakinada, and Maipadu beaches, from January 1. Tourism minister Kandula Durgesh confirmed the move as part of a broader effort to enhance beach facilities and manage maintenance costs.
The state govt has launched several projects aimed at transforming Andhra Pradesh into a top tourist destination, including a seaplane service between Vijayawada and Srisailam and initiatives to develop the state’s coastal areas. Plans include establishing resorts through private partnerships and ensuring cleanliness and aesthetic improvements at major beaches.Minister Durgesh emphasised that past beach development efforts often fell short due to neglect in maintenance. “This time, we are focusing not only on development but also on the upkeep of these areas,” he stated. He added that revenue from entry fees would be reinvested in the same beaches to support their maintenance and further beautification.
While the exact ticket price is yet to be finalised, it is expected to range between Rs 15 and Rs 20 per visitor. The tourism department estimates that beaches like Suryalanka and Rushikonda draw up to 3,000 visitors on weekdays, with this number potentially rising to 10,000 on weekends and holidays.
The decision, however, has drawn criticism from opposition parties and public associations. With this decision, CPM state secretary Ch Babu Rao argued that the govt is adding to the public’s financial burden.
“The NDA alliance promised to relieve citizens of previous burdens. Instead, they increased electricity tariffs, kept essential prices high, and are now imposing fees on beach visits under the guise of tourism development. The govt should reconsider this decision,” he remarked.
