Bhubaneswar, Jan. 21 -- The Odisha tourism department has reportedly drawn up a Rs 9-crore development proposal to upgrade the 10-km coastal stretch between Paradip and Siali in Jagatsinghpur district.

The proposal is reportedly part of the efforts to secure the prestigious Blue Flag Beach certification.

The project is part of a larger push to promote eco-tourism along Odisha's coastline and bring lesser-known beaches into the tourism spotlight.

Officials believe the Paradip-Siali belt has the potential to emerge as a major attraction if supported by modern infrastructure and environmental safeguards.

Read More: Odisha Tourism dept responds after Anand Mahindra's remark on Sundargarh's Kanhakund

"The Paradip beach has great potential...