Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala tourism department has announced Rs 14.67 crore upgradation master plan for Shangumugham beach. This master plan will take beach up to international standards. Tourism minister Kadakampally Surendran inaugurated the construction works at the beach on Saturday.

Meanwhile, Surendran inaugurated the restored pond known as ‘Shangu kulam’ and 17 heritage shops near the Shangumugham beach. As per the new master plan, the Shangumugham beach will consist of recreational hub and cultural hub, entry improvement, urban plaza and vehicle parking.

While speaking at the inauguration function, the tourism minister said the beach is identified even on the global tourist map, and the new master plan will improve the facilities in the beach. He also stressed on the need for keeping the tourist spots free of waste and plastic.

He also added that Rs 125 crore had been allocated for the development of the capital district, Thiruvananthapuram.

Tourism director P Bala Kiran, in his welcome address, said that the Shangumugham master plan is a result of a year-long activity of research and discussions. The department of irrigation had submitted a proposal to the tune of Rs 7.04 crore to construct a protection wall in the beach and to implement shore protections measures at the beach in 2018.

In the beginning, the estimated amount was less than Rs four crore but after the final design and approval, the estimate has touched Rs seven crore.

The floods last year and sea erosion have eaten up the beach partially. Similarly, the retaining wall and the airport Shangumugham road were also destroyed.