Padubidri: The concrete road providing the sole access from the internationally acclaimed Blue Flag beach at Padubidri End Point to the main road collapsed on Sunday due to severe sea erosion. This incident has cut off direct access to the beach, which is a major attraction for tourists.
On Saturday, Minister Mankala Vaidya inspected the area and noted that the sand supporting the road had been eroded into the sea. In response, he directed contractors to carry out emergency repairs, with MLA Suresh Shetty present to oversee the work.
As a precautionary measure, Padubidri Blue Flag beach has been closed to tourists until July 31. Barricades have been set up at Nadipatna Sri Vishnu Bajana Mandir to prevent unauthorized access to the affected area, according to Vijay Shetty, the beach manager.
Kaup MLA Suresh Shetty highlighted the severity of the situation, stating that the road leading to the Blue Flag beach is completely damaged. He raised the issue with Tourism Minister H K Patil during the assembly session and was assured that a grant for repairs would be provided. Shetty plans to meet with the minister personally to address the urgent need for repairs.
The local community and officials are working together to restore access to the beach and ensure the safety of tourists and residents.