Maharashtra govt gives a nod to Caravan tourism; Here's all you need to know

The Maharashtra Cabinet on Wednesday, February 17, approved the proposal and concept of 'caravan tourism' . This has been done in wake of coronavirus pandemic and to adhere to the safety concerns of tourists. This decision was taken in a Cabinet meeting headed by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray to boost the tourism industry.

According to the press release issued by the government, the policy has been divided into two parts -- caravan and caravan park. The caravan has to be registered with the Commissioner of Transport and will require necessary permissions from the local authorities.

As per the policy, there will be different types of caravans like single axle conventional caravan, twin axle caravan tent trailer, folding caravan, and camper trailer. Each caravan van will be equipped with a kitchen, toilet, bed, sofa table, and other basics amenities.

The parking lot will have all the necessary facilities such as separate water connections, toilets, road connectivity, and electricity connections.

Under this policy, incentives will also be provided to caravan vehicles. Moreover, the tour operators can also register themselves online and the registration fee is capped at INR 5,000 and the renewal fee at INR 2,000.

Meanwhile, Maharashtra BJP spokesperson Keshav Upadhyay criticised the move saying that decision should not be taken for rich people only.

Responding to this, Maharashtra Minister Nawab Malik said the BJP will not understand that caravan tourism will generate lots of employment in the state.

What are the provisions?

Caravan parks can be set up in the vicinity of Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) accommodation or on their open land as well as at agri-tourism centres.

The park will come up on at least 2.5 acres of land with a maximum of 20 parking bays. It can accommodate small to large caravans. They 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, roads and electricity connections.

It will be created with facilities such as water, road and power connections, tourist facility centre and a park among others. The place will also have adequate toilets and facilities for the disabled.

People will be trained in hygiene, marketing and management by the Tourism department and the initiative will be widely publicised.