Maharashtra To Develop ‘Tourism Zone’ In Navi Mumbai

EE News Desk Mar 13, 2024

Mumbai is set to establish a specialised "tourism zone" in Navi Mumbai adjacent to the upcoming Greenfield International Airport.

This designated zone, spanning 1,000 acres, will be strategically situated near the bustling hubs of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane and Raigad, offering a blend of dining options, amusement parks, hotels and hospitality training institutes.

The proposed zone aligns with the draft tourism policy for Maharashtra, emphasising experimental tourism activities like adventure, rural, wellness, and community tourism, alongside streamlined approvals for the hospitality sector.

A state tourism department official said in a media report, "The draft policy includes provisions for allocating land for a tourism zone and creating this zone on 1,000 acres of land near the Navi Mumbai International Airport. The location has been chosen as it is part of the Mumbai Metropolitan Region growth hub. It will have hotels, entertainment facilities, amusement parks and tourism-related activities."

“The zone will also have a hotel management and training institute as we plan to focus on skill development. The private sector needs skilled manpower," the official was quoted as saying in the report. He further informed that stakeholder consultations have been completed, and the draft policy will be submitted to the state cabinet soon for approval.

Moreover, the plan includes the deployment of a dedicated "tourism police" force comprised of ex-servicemen, aimed at ensuring visitor safety and assistance. Maharashtra's tourism sector, which welcomed 43.57 million domestic and 190,000 foreign tourists in 2021, continues to evolve with a focus on skill development and enhanced visitor experiences.