Mumbai, the bustling metropolis known as the financial capital of India, is set to receive a significant boost in its tourism infrastructure with the establishment of a dedicated ‘tourism zone’ in Navi Mumbai, adjacent to the upcoming greenfield international airport. This initiative, aimed at promoting tourism and hospitality, is poised to transform the landscape of the region and enhance its appeal as a tourist destination.
Spanning over 1,000 acres of land, the proposed tourism zone will be strategically located near the growth centers of Mumbai, Navi Mumbai, Thane, and Raigad. It is envisioned as a vibrant hub featuring a diverse range of attractions and amenities, including restaurants, amusement parks, hotels, and training institutes. This holistic approach seeks to create a conducive environment for tourism-related activities while also fostering skill development and generating employment opportunities for the local youth.
The concept of the tourism zone is aligned with the broader vision outlined in the draft tourism policy for Maharashtra, which is slated to be presented before the state cabinet soon. This policy framework emphasizes the promotion of experimental tourism activities such as adventure tourism, rural tourism, wellness tourism, and community tourism. By diversifying the tourism offerings and leveraging the state’s rich cultural and natural heritage, Maharashtra aims to position itself as a leading destination for travelers seeking unique and authentic experiences.
One of the key features of the draft tourism policy is the provision for single-window clearance for the hospitality sector, streamlining the regulatory processes and facilitating ease of doing business. This initiative is expected to attract investment and spur the development of tourism infrastructure across the state, including the proposed tourism zone in Navi Mumbai.
According to a state tourism department official, the choice of location for the tourism zone near the Navi Mumbai international airport is strategic, considering its proximity to the Mumbai Metropolitan Region growth hub. The site’s accessibility and connectivity make it an ideal location for tourism-related activities, catering to both domestic and international travelers. The tourism zone is envisioned as a vibrant and dynamic destination, offering a wide range of leisure and entertainment options for visitors of all ages.
In addition to hospitality and entertainment facilities, the tourism zone will also house a hotel management and training institute, reflecting the government’s emphasis on skill development and capacity building in the tourism sector. This initiative aims to address the growing demand for skilled manpower in the hospitality industry and empower local youth with the necessary knowledge and expertise to pursue careers in tourism and hospitality.
To ensure the safety and security of tourists, the draft tourism policy proposes the deployment of a dedicated ‘tourism police’ force in tourist areas. Comprising personnel recruited from the ranks of ex-servicemen, this specialized unit will be trained to assist tourists and address any security concerns promptly. By enhancing the safety and well-being of visitors, the tourism police force aims to create a favorable environment for tourism growth and development.
Maharashtra’s tourism potential is vast, with a rich tapestry of cultural heritage, natural landscapes, and urban attractions. According to the India Tourism Statistics-2022 report, the state attracted 43.57 million domestic tourists and 190,000 foreign tourists in 2021, making it one of the top destinations in the country. With the implementation of strategic initiatives like the tourism zone in Navi Mumbai and the broader policy reforms outlined in the draft tourism policy, Maharashtra is poised to further elevate its status as a premier tourism destination, offering memorable experiences for travelers from around the world.
