Tourism boost for state’s tribal villages near Statue of Unity

MUMBAI: With a rising number of tourists visiting the newly inaugurated ‘Statue of Unity’ at Kevadia Colony in Narmada district of Gujarat, the Maharashtra government is planning to tap into the growing interest and develop tourism facilities in its hamlets and villages that are nearby.

These tribal areas are part of Akkalkuwa tehsil of Nandurbar district near the Narmada River.

The state tourism department is planning to undertake training programs for the local tribals and will develop a small entertainment hub in the tehsil which will include hotels, restaurants, and others facilities.

State tourism minister Jaykumar Rawal said the villages such as Manibeli are a 40-minute boat ride away from Kevadia Colony. Tourists have already started visiting these areas after the Gujarat government started the boat service.

“We will start with organising training programs for the villagers through which they will be guided on how to earn money by serving tourists whatever they can source easily, like bhakri, chutni, dahi, chaas (buttermilk) etc,” Rawal said.

“We are also planning to develop a small entertainment hub comprising hotels, restaurants and dhabas at which tourists will be able to enjoy tribal food and culture.”

Nandurbar district collector Mallinath Kalshetti said they have started a search to identify a suitable plot close to Narmada River which can be developed.

FAISAL MALIK