Odisha govt to revamp Gopalpur beach with Rs 30 crore plan, improve illumination and safety amid outrage

The Odisha government is reportedly planning a comprehensive Rs 30 crore development plan for Gopalpur beach in Ganjam district, aiming to transform the scenic coastal stretch into a modern, safer, and more attractive destination for domestic and international tourists.

According to The Times of India, Commerce and Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena, who is also the MLA from Gopalpur, confirmed the plan on Wednesday, stating that the funds have already been sanctioned by the state tourism department.

The reports also mentioned that the project will include complete illumination of the beach from Haripur to Baxipalli, beautification works, and the establishment of a yoga centre.

According to Jena, this is part of a wider effort to enhance Odisha’s coastal tourism potential and infrastructure.

Presently, inadequate lighting and lack of facilities have limited the beach’s full potential despite its natural appeal, he added. The upcoming development is expected to improve tourist amenities and safety, and support the local economy through increased footfall.

Part of Odisha’s Rs 820 Crore Tourism Vision

The Gopalpur beach revamp aligns with the Odisha government’s larger tourism vision, as presented in the 2025–26 state budget. Under Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi’s leadership, the government has allocated Rs 820 crore for tourism development across the state.

In February, reports had also pointed out that Gopalpur and Paradip beaches had been selected for development as Blue Flag beaches. In parallel, the state is also launching eco-tourism measures at Chilika Lake, such as introducing environmentally friendly boat engines to preserve its delicate ecosystem.

Gang Rape Incident Prompts Urgent Safety Push

The announcement comes just days after a 20-year-old college student was allegedly gang-raped by 10 individuals at Gopalpur beach, sparking outrage and highlighting the urgent need for safety reforms.

Police officials reportedly raised the lack of illumination as a factor that may have contributed to the vulnerability at the location.