Maharashtra: Goa-style beach shacks coming soon along Konkan coast

In a bid to boost tourism in the state, the Maharashtra cabinet recently approved the ‘beach shack’ policy, that will allow setting up of temporary beach shacks along the Konkan coast.

As per a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s office, initially, a pilot project will be undertaken. As per this project, eight beaches will be set up, which will further be extended depending on demand. The said policy has been under discussion since 2017.
Reportedly, two popular beaches from all the four districts, including Kelwe and Bordi in Palghar, Diveagar and Varsoli in Raigad, Araware and Guhagar in Ratnagiri, and Kundkeshwar and Tarkali in Sindhudurg have been picked up for this project.
Officials in the know-how added that since the beaches are under the coastal regulation zone, shacks can be set up on some beaches after Maharashtra Coastal Zone Management Authority (MCZMA) clearance. Those interested, can get the application forms online. The officials added that the shacks can remain open from 7 AM to 7 PM and CCTV for each one will be mandatory. He added the charges that the tourists will pay and other guidelines will be issued by MTDC soon.
Referring to this development, Cabinet Minister Anil Parab said that only 10 shacks will be allowed to set up per beach. He emphasised that they will give preference to applications made by locals, and the idea is to boost tourism, and also open up an alternative economy for locals. He added that this 80 per cent jobs that this project will generate will be held by the locals.
Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray tweeted about this project that stated eight beaches in Maharashtra have been approved for eco-friendly shacks, which will be a major tourist facility, however, 80 per cent employment for locals was a must.