Suryalanka Beach to Remain Closed to Public from December 1 to 24

Suryalanka Beach in Bapatla district will remain off-limits to the public from December 1 to 24 as the Indian Air Force conducts a scheduled training programme at its Suryalanka station. The state government has restricted entry to designated coastal areas adjoining the facility during this period.

The notification has been issued under Section 3A of the Seaward Artillery Practice Act, 1949. The training programme will be conducted in two phases, with the first scheduled from December 1 to 11 and the second from December 12 to 24. Training activities will take place daily between 6 am and 10 pm during both phases.

As part of the exercise, a specified stretch of the coastline within Bapatla mandal has been declared a dangerous zone. The government has directed the concerned authorities to issue appropriate warnings and take necessary measures to prevent people from entering the restricted areas while firing activities are underway.

According to the notification, the unsafe zones have been identified with reference to firing points located at 15°50'34" North latitude and 080°29'24" East longitude in Bapatla mandal. The restricted area extends into the sea for up to 100 kilometres within a 110-degree radial sector from these points. Another zone, covering a 200-degree radial sector from ground level to unlimited altitude, has also been designated as unsafe.

The restrictions are intended to minimise risks to the public during the Air Force's training and firing operations. Authorities have been instructed to ensure that people are informed about the restricted areas and comply with the directions throughout the exercise.

Residents, tourists and others planning to visit Suryalanka Beach have been advised to take note of the restrictions and avoid entering the designated coastal stretches during the specified period. The ban will remain in force throughout both phases of the training programme.

The government has emphasised that the public must strictly follow safety instructions issued by the authorities and cooperate with the officials responsible for enforcing the restrictions. Compliance is essential to prevent accidents and ensure the safe and uninterrupted conduct of the Indian Air Force's scheduled training activities.