In a move set to revolutionize the tourist experience across Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has announced plans to privatize over 30 of its properties and develop land under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. This decision, while expected to significantly enhance the state-run resorts, will also provide substantial opportunities for private developers to enter the tourism sector.
Among the destinations included in the first phase of the privatization initiative are well-known tourist spots such as Ganpatipule, Tarkarli, Shirdi, Karla, Alibag, Matheran, and Tadoba. These areas, which have long been popular among tourists, are set to receive a major boost in facilities and infrastructure.
Manojkumar Suryawanshi, Managing Director of MTDC, shared, “We have invited bids for 30 tourist destinations in the first phase. More sites will be added as we move forward. This initiative aligns with the 2024 Tourism Policy of Maharashtra, focusing on improving the tourism landscape in the state.”
Boosting Tourism Competitiveness
Tourism department officials pointed out that MTDC resorts have struggled to match the level of quality provided by other states such as Kerala and Goa. An official highlighted the potential for Sindhudurg, a district known for its stunning beaches but lacking in high-end accommodations. “Sindhudurg was declared a tourist district in the 1990s, but it lacked starred hotels for many years. Now, two five-star hotels are under construction, while Goa already has 27 five-star hotels,” the official said. Under the new PPP model, MTDC plans to upgrade existing resorts and build new ones, particularly in the Konkan region, with a focus on three- to five-star accommodations.
Political Criticism and Concerns
Despite the potential benefits of the privatization move, it has attracted significant political criticism, particularly from Shiv Sena (UBT) MLC and Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, Ambadas Danve. He has questioned the timing of the decision, which comes just ahead of the state’s assembly elections, and accused the government of favoring private developers over public interest.
Danve voiced his concerns on World Tourism Day, asking, “Why is MTDC privatizing profit-making resorts at prime destinations like Ganpatipule, Tarkarli, Shirdi, and Karla? This appears to be a ploy to hand over valuable state lands to private players.” He also criticized the incentives being offered to developers, such as a 20 per cent capital subsidy, GST refunds, Stamp Duty concessions, and electricity tariff reductions.
Government’s Response and Long-Term Vision
Responding to the allegations, Tourism Minister Girish Mahajan defended the move, explaining that the decision aims to attract international and high-end domestic tourists. “We are developing MTDC resorts in three categories—three-star, four-star, and five-star properties—to cater to affluent tourists. The land will remain owned by MTDC, and in addition to an upfront payment, we will receive a 12.5 per cent share of the gross revenue from these properties,” Mahajan stated.
Probe into PWD Projects
In a related development, Ambadas Danve has also called for an investigation into the Public Works Department (PWD), alleging large-scale financial mismanagement. Danve claimed that while ₹21,148 crore has been allocated for capital expenditure in the budget, the PWD has approved projects worth ₹86,000 crore, despite existing liabilities of ₹16,000 crore. He has urged Governor C P Radhakrishnan to investigate the matter.
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