Revamping Pilgrimage Sites and Tourist Attractions in Maharashtra: Major Investment of INR 305.63 Cr for Theme Parks and Water Sports
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde spearheaded a state-level meeting on Tuesday, September 24, with a primary focus on enhancing pilgrimage sites and tourist attractions across the state. The meeting resulted in the approval of development plans amounting to a staggering INR 305.63 crore. A significant portion of these funds has been earmarked for the development of pilgrimage sites, reflecting the government’s commitment to bolstering Maharashtra’s cultural and heritage tourism offerings.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Shinde emphasized the importance of executing high-quality work on these projects and urged officials to kickstart the planning process without delay. The discussions centered on a range of initiatives aimed at enhancing the overall visitor experience and infrastructure at key pilgrimage sites and heritage landmarks in Maharashtra.
Key Development Plans Approved
1. **Pandharpur Vitthal Mandir:** Plans have been set in motion to construct a “Darshan Mandap” and a “Darshan Queue” at the iconic Pandharpur Vitthal Mandir, with an allocated budget of INR 129.49 crore. This initiative is poised to enhance the pilgrim experience and streamline the visitation process at this revered site.
2. **Laxmi Narayan Shiv Mandir-Nandanvan, Nagpur:** The Urban Development Department presented proposals for the development of the Laxmi Narayan Shiv Mandir-Nandanvan in Nagpur, with a budget of Rs 24.73 crore. This project aims to enhance the infrastructure and amenities at the temple, catering to the needs of devotees and tourists alike.
3. **Kutte Wale Baba Mandir Ashram and Murlidhar Mandir Pardi, Nagpur:** Approval has been granted for the development of the Kutte Wale Baba Mandir Ashram and the Murlidhar Mandir Pardi in Nagpur, with budgets of INR 13.35 crore and INR 14.39 crore respectively. These initiatives underscore the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting religious and cultural heritage sites across Maharashtra.
4. **Mars Planet Temple, Amalner Taluka:** Chief Minister Shinde approved INR 25 crore for the development of the Mars Planet Temple in Amalner Taluka, Jalgaon district. This project is poised to attract visitors and bolster the religious and tourism landscape in the region.
5. **Shri Kshetra Gahininath Gad:** Development plans for Shri Kshetra Gahininath Gad have been greenlit, with a budget of INR 2.67 crore. This initiative aims to enhance the infrastructure and facilities at this revered site, catering to the needs of pilgrims and visitors.
6. **Theme Park in Bhagur, Nashik:** A theme park is set to be constructed in Bhagur, Nashik, the birthplace of Veer Savarkar. The project has been allocated INR 40 crore, with INR 15 crore earmarked for the initial phase. This initiative is expected to boost tourism and cultural offerings in the region.
7. **Water Sports in Satara Koyna Reservoir:** Approval has been granted for the introduction of water sports activities at the picturesque Satara Koyna reservoir, with an estimated budget of INR 47 crore. This initiative aims to promote adventure tourism and enhance recreational opportunities for visitors.
8. **Memorial for Constable Tukaram Ombale, Satara:** A memorial honoring Constable Tukaram Ombale, who made the ultimate sacrifice during the 26/11 terrorist attack, has been sanctioned in Satara. An allocation of INR 15 crore has been set aside for the construction of this poignant tribute.
9. **Sant Gadgebaba Karmabhumi Development:** A proposal amounting to INR 18 crore for the development of Sant Gadgebaba Karmabhumi was presented during the meeting. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Maharashtra.
Inclusive Approach and Ministerial Participation
The state-level meeting witnessed the active participation of several key ministers, including Chandrakant Patil, the Minister of Higher and Technical Education, and Anil Patil, the Minister of Relief and Rehabilitation. Additionally, MLAs Saroj Ahire, Saadhan Awatade, and Shivendra Singh Raje Bhosale lent their support to the development plans discussed during the meeting. Chief Secretary Sujata Saunik and Additional Chief Secretary Vikas Kharge were also present, underscoring the collaborative and inclusive approach adopted towards enhancing pilgrimage sites and tourist attractions in Maharashtra.
Through these strategic investments and development initiatives, Maharashtra is poised to elevate its status as a premier destination for cultural, spiritual, and heritage tourism, offering enriching experiences for visitors from near and far.
