In a significant development, the Maharashtra state government has approved an ambitious water tourism project in the village of Munawale, situated in the Koyna Dam area. The project, initiated through a proposal submitted by the Satara District Planning Committee in 2022, has received the green light from the apex committee of the state government.
The responsibility for the successful implementation of this project has been entrusted to the Krishna Valley Development Corporation, with the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) designated to execute the groundbreaking initiative. Stringent measures have been implemented to ensure environmental protection and prevent any potential pollution in the water tourism sector. Notably, the government has mandated the use of environmentally friendly boats to preserve the ecological balance of the region.
Santosh Rokde, Deputy Secretary of the Tourism and Culture Department, made the announcement, underlining the government’s commitment to adhering to strict environmental guidelines. The directive includes provisions for necessary insurance discounts and medical facilities for tourists to ensure compliance with regulations and enhance the overall safety of visitors.
In a bid to promote tourism development, the State Government has made amendments to the Official Secrets Act 1923, with a specific focus 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 allocated for this purpose. The Koyna Dam area, adorned with natural wonders like forests, Sahyadri hills, and pristine blue waters, along with the Shivsagar Reservoir, offers immense potential for water tourism development. This initiative not only promises job opportunities for local youth but also aims to foster economic growth in the region.
