With the aim of developing tourist locations and spots in the state, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) has invited Public Private Partnership (PPP).

Speaking during the event, Ratnakar Gaikwad, Chief Secretary, Maharashtra, said that after MTDC and the state, it is up to the public-private investor body to work towards changing the scenario. “I do not mind holding monthly meetings for this cause as the issue of development is of prime importance,” said Gaikwad.

Adding further, the chief secretary said that both MTDC and PPP must ensure that the state stands out when it comes to tourism as Maharashtra is gifted by nature, and all that is required is better efforts. The tourism department has come up a five-year action plan to boost the tourism industry in and around the state, giving prime importance to infrastructure at most tourist destinations.

“One of the consistent problems with tourism has been about the accessibility to various destinations, and facilities,” said a senior MTDC official. The official also confirmed that the tourism board is working closely with the state government on the Development of Control Regulation (DCR) policy at different tourist destinations.

“There are acres of land around various tourist destinations which belong to MTDC. We cannot build amenities such as hotels, amphitheatres, etc., alone. Therefore, through the PPP model, these areas can be developed,” said Jagdish Patil, Managing Director, MTDC.