Bapatla District Collector V. Vinod Kumar on Saturday said efforts were under way to develop beaches in Chinnaganjam mandal into attractive tourism destinations to boost local livelihoods and economic activity.

The Collector, accompanied by officials from the forest, revenue and fisheries departments, undertook a boat journey through the backwaters from Romperu Amin Nagar to Etimoga to inspect mangrove forests and assess the tourism potential of the region.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Vinod Kumar said plans would be prepared to develop beaches in Chinnaganjam mandal on the lines of the popular Suryalanka and Chirala beaches. He directed officials of the concerned departments to formulate a comprehensive strategy to transform the region into a prominent tourist destination capable of attracting visitors from across the country.

The Collector said Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu envisioned developing nearly 900 km of coastline in the State to strengthen tourism and generate higher revenue.

Highlighting livelihood opportunities, he said women belonging to self-help groups could be supported through bank loans to establish micro-enterprises such as cloth bag manufacturing units and food stalls serving traditional fish curry and fried fish to tourists.

He noted that tourists from Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Tamil Nadu frequently visit coastal destinations, particularly during weekends.

Officials from the forest, fisheries, tourism, police, revenue and fire services departments, along with local residents, participated in the inspection.