Camping & caravans: Maha Cabinet clears unique tourism policy
In a bid to boost tourism in Maharashtra especially post COVID 19, the state cabinet on Wednesday cleared Caravan Tourism Policy. The policy consists of 2 parts comprising Caravan Park and Caravan so that tourists can easily take advantage of the diverse natural beauty of the state. It will also increase employment. The exemption in stamp duty, GST refund and concession in Electricity Duty will be provided to the investors.
As reported by Free Press Journal, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation in September last year had released a draft policy seeking suggestions and objections from various stakeholders. Private players can procure caravans for tourism and as supportive infrastructure for these vehicles, the government will allow setting up of caravan parks. Registration of caravans and caravan parks will be required with the Directorate of Tourism. The caravan and caravan park professionals will be trained in marketing, hygiene and management by the Directorate of Tourism. Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray said,’’ The Cabinet meeting chaired by the Chief Minister Uddhav Thackray approved the Caravan Tourism Policy for tourism development. It will enable tourists to experience the beauty of Maharashtra in a unique way.’’
The government hopes to promote caravan tourism considering that Maharashtra is known for scenic beaches, forts, mountain ranges, hill stations, forests, heritage sites, caves and dams. While these attractions have immense potential for caravan tourism, they said, the moving ‘houses’ will have great demand in remote areas where hotels are scarce. According to the policy, caravans and camper vans will be able to provide all the facilities to tourists in areas where permanent construction is prohibited. Caravan parks will be places where recreational vehicles can be parked and all the facilities including water refill, batter y charging and disposal of sewage will be made available. In addition, there will be food courts and information regarding local sights. These parks will be set up in the buffer zone of a forest, near a dam or foot of a fort. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation plans to promote caravan parks and caravans through public and private sectors and PPP mode. MTDC will provide land, while others will require to develop various amenities and facilities at the parks. It will be promoted and marketed under MTDC’s Mahabhraman scheme. The caravan parks will remain operational 24X7 during tourist seasons and will be connected by fair-weather roads from main carriageways.