Maharashtra govt approves caravan tourism policy

The govt hopes to promote caravan tourism considering that Maharashtra is known for scenic beaches, forts, mountain ranges, hill stations, forests, heritage sites, caves. etc.

Giving a major boost to travel and leisure, the Maharashtra government approved a caravan tourism policy on Wednesday.

The policy comprises two parts -- caravan parks and caravan tourism -- and is aimed at enabling tourists to take advantage of the diverse natural beauty of the state.

The policy was approved at the weekly Cabinet meeting presided over by Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray.

“The caravan tourism will add to the experiences offered to the tourists,” state Tourism Minister Aaditya Thackeray said.

“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 through the Directorate of Tourism,” officials said.

It may be recalled that the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation in September last year had released a draft policy seeking suggestions and objections from various stakeholders. 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.

These vans will have a kitchen with bed facility, toilet, sofa, table and is built for rest and accommodation. There will be different types of caravans such as single-axle conventional caravan, twin axle caravan, tent trailer, folding caravan and camper trailer.

The caravan parks can be set up by private landowners or developers on private or government land. The parking lot will have the necessary facilities as well as separate water, road and electricity connections. The place will also have a tourist facility centre.