Govt to upgrade infra, revamp national park to boost tourism

Seeking to boost tourism in Maharashtra, the government has decided to upgrade the infrastructure in the state, which will include improving the air and road connectivity, and complete revamping of the Sanjay Gandhi National Park here.
Maharashtra Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar said it is the BJP-led government's resolve to transform the state into the "most-sought after tourism destination" in the near future and assured continuous and uninterrupted funding for tourism projects.
"It may seem that we are spending less on tourism. But the infrastructure that is being developed, is not done by the Tourism Department. For instance, if I am making the way leading to Ajanta Ellora caves or providing electricity connection there, that money will not be shown in the expenditure for tourism. The money will go to Maharashtra State Electricity Board (MSEB)," Mungantiwar told PTI.

He said the government plans to develop nearest airports, improve existing facilities and build or upgrade railway stations or bus stands, among other plans.
"For example, to improve tourism of Ganpatipule, we have decided to upgrade the bus services to the area so that the destination can be easily accessible," he said.
He further said that the Sanjay Gandhi National Park, located at the suburb of Borivali, will undergo a complete revamp.
"Right from forest conservation to preserving rare species of plants, special efforts will be made to highlight the park for butterflies. Adequate funds will be granted for this make-over," Mungantiwar said.

Advocating the need to showcase dynamic tourism potential of Maharashtra, Mungantiwar also appealed to the stakeholders to explore unconventional areas of tourism and develop innovative products.