Maharashtra Government Unveils Ambitious Water Tourism Project in Koyna Dam Area
Satara/Pune, 7th February 2024: The Maharashtra state government has given the nod to a water tourism project in the village of Munawale, situated in the Koyna Dam area, following a proposal submitted through the Satara District Planning Committee (DPC) in 2022. The proposal aimed at the development of water tourism garnered approval from the apex committee of the state government.
The responsibility for implementing this project has been entrusted to the Krishna Valley Development Corporation, with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) set to execute the initiative. Stringent measures have been put in place to ensure the protection of the environment and prevent any form of pollution in the water tourism sector. Notably, the use of environmentally friendly boats has been mandated by the government.
Santosh Rokde, Deputy Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department, announced the government’s decision, emphasizing the importance of adhering to environmental guidelines. The directive includes provisions for necessary insurance discounts and medical facilities for tourists in compliance with regulations.
In a move to promote tourism development, the State Government has made amendments to the Official Secrets Act 1923, specifically focusing on the Koyna Dam and the backwater area of Shivsagar. While safeguarding the dam and its surrounding seven km area as a prohibited zone, this amendment opens avenues for tourism development in the remaining 80 km area of the reservoir.
The government envisions transforming Munawale in Jawli taluka into a world-class water tourism destination through the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation, with a sanctioned fund of 45 crores for this purpose. The Koyna Dam area boasts natural wonders like forests, Sahyadri hills, and pristine blue waters. The Shivsagar Reservoir offers immense potential for water tourism development, promising job opportunities for local youth and fostering economic growth in the region.
