Maharashtra intends to establish a tourism zone adjacent to the forthcoming Navi Mumbai airport.

The proposed zone, with amusement parks, hotels and restaurants, is part of the draft tourism policy to be tabled before the state cabinet soon

Mumbai is on the verge of welcoming a dedicated 'tourism zone' near the upcoming greenfield international airport in Navi Mumbai. Positioned strategically amidst the bustling growth centers of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad, this zone is envisioned to span across 1,000 acres, boasting a vibrant mix of attractions including amusement parks, hotels, restaurants, as well as institutes for hotel management and training. This initiative is part of the draft tourism policy for Maharashtra, slated to be presented before the state cabinet soon.

A senior official from the state tourism department elaborated, “The proposed tourism zone, strategically situated within the Mumbai Metropolitan Region (MMR) growth hub, aims to offer a plethora of hospitality options, entertainment facilities, and tourism-related activities. Additionally, it will house a specialized hotel management and training institute, underscoring our commitment to skill development to meet the industry demands.”

Furthermore, the draft policy outlines the establishment of a specialized 'tourism police' force, comprising experienced personnel primarily from ex-servicemen, tasked with ensuring the safety and assistance of tourists in designated areas. Emphasizing diversification, the policy also advocates for experimental tourism endeavors such as rural, adventure, community, and wellness tourism. Notably, a streamlined single-window clearance mechanism for the hospitality sector is also included.

Following exhaustive stakeholder consultations, the draft policy is poised for submission to the state cabinet for approval in the near future.

In a broader context, Maharashtra continues to witness a steady influx of tourists, with 2021 witnessing 43.57 million domestic and 190,000 foreign tourists, signaling a promising trend compared to the previous year. Recognized for its rich tapestry of tourist attractions ranging from beaches and wildlife sanctuaries to historical monuments and pilgrimage sites, Maharashtra remains a top contender on India's tourism map.

Driven by the overarching goal of positioning the state as a premier tourism destination and fostering economic growth, Maharashtra has consistently introduced policies aimed at attracting investments and generating employment opportunities. Recent initiatives such as the Agro-Tourism, Beach Shack, and Caravan Tourism policies, alongside the Adventure Tourism Policy, underscore the state's commitment to leveraging its diverse tourism potential.