Konkan ferry service likely to start soon to promote beach tourism

Maharashtra Government in a move to develop the infrastructure of coastal tourism has decided to develop tourist jetties. If this project gets implemented, beach hopping might soon become an easy task across Konkan.
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It is expected that this initiative will boost tourism and hospitality industry in nearby areas. Vikram Kumar, CEO, Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB) regarding this move said, “This can be used for boat cruises and water transport. We are collaborating with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). The MMB will construct these jetties with funding from the Sagarmala Project.”
The locations that have been, as of now, identified for the said project include — Kashid; Underi (in the Mumbai harbour); Purnagad (Ratnagiri); Vijaydurg (Sindhudurg); Vengurla; Suvarnadurg; Belapur in Navi Mumbai; and Bhatye. This project will also cover areas around forts that are tourist hotspots like Vijaydurg and Diveagar. Private operators will also be given opportunity to use these jetties and launch tourist services that are water based.


Kumar further informed that if all approvals are carried out on time, work on this project will likely start from the month of October. He further informed, “Each jetty is expected to cost between INR 8 to 10 crore, and each site will get a jetty and terminal building. Some sites have been approved while permissions for the remaining locations are under consideration.”

This region’s coastline has largely remained unexplored, and efforts are being taken to develop facilities around the coastline, such as, captive jetties, marinas, and water transport ports.