G.S. Sameeran Inspects Marina Beach Blue Flag Phase III Near Completion, Phases IV‑V Underway

On May 29, 2026, G.S. Sameeran, the Greater Chennai Corporation commissioner, toured the Marina Beach Blue Flag Phase III zone and reported that the 20‑acre stretch is almost ready for certification, while work on Phases IV behind the lighthouse and V near Anna Square progresses. The inspection also covered the newly installed meditation centre, reading room and wheelchair‑friendly pathways that were added last year.

Chennai’s Blue Flag programme, launched in 2023, aims to meet the international standard that requires strict water‑quality monitoring, marine litter reduction of up to 85 % and gender‑sensitive labour codes. Two zones—each spanning roughly 20 acres—already carry the flag, featuring 20 bamboo shade structures, 40 reclining chairs, four watch towers and 24 dustbins per zone.

Phase III mirrors this layout, adding 12 seating benches, 12 wheelchairs for persons with disabilities and automatic drinking‑water dispensers. Construction began in early 2025 under the corporation’s Teynampet zone plan, with funding allocated from the municipal budget’s urban‑development fund of ₹1.2 billion.

"Our priority is to keep Marina Beach clean and accessible for every visitor," Sameeran said, noting that the summer holiday season will draw larger crowds. Local vendor Ravi Kumar, who sells ice‑cream near the new selfie point, welcomed the upgrades, saying they will attract more families and boost his daily earnings.

The commissioner ordered continuous garbage clearance throughout the peak holiday weeks and directed staff to monitor the public‑toilet facilities daily. A follow‑up inspection is scheduled for mid‑July to ensure compliance before the next Blue Flag audit.