Shiv Srushti project at Ghodbunder to be developed through MTDC: Pratap Sarnaik

Pic/Special Arrangement

The long-pending Shiv Srushti project at Ghodbunder will now be developed and completed through the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC), Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik announced on Monday.

He was speaking at a meeting held in the chamber of Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai at Mantralaya. The meeting was attended by Tourism Secretary Sanjay Khandare, Mira-Bhayandar Municipal Corporation Commissioner Radha Binod Sharma, and senior officials from the concerned departments.

Project to Receive Major Boost

Speaking at the meeting, Sarnaik said that as a local representative, he had consistently pursued the development of the Ghodbunder Fort and its surrounding area as a major tourism destination. Eknath Shinde had sanctioned approximately Rs 200 crore for the development of tourism infrastructure around Ghodbunder Fort, including the creek waterfront, a skywalk, and other visitor amenities.

He said the development of the fort precinct would not only boost tourism but also create employment opportunities for local residents.

In line with this vision, Sarnaik had proposed the construction of a Shiv Srushti project at the foothills of Ghodbunder Fort to then Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. The proposal was approved, and the project received sanction with an estimated cost of around Rs 50 crore.

Tourism Department to Bear Entire Cost

Under the original plan, a high-level committee had decided that 75 per cent of the project cost would be borne by the Tourism Department, while the remaining 25 per cent would be contributed by the concerned municipal corporation.

However, Sarnaik said he had requested Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai to have the Tourism Department bear the entire cost of the project to ensure smoother decision-making, better coordination, and faster implementation.

Following this request, Desai issued necessary directions to officials during Monday's meeting. As a result, the entire cost of the Shiv Srushti project at Ghodbunder will now be funded through the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) under the Tourism Department.

Path Cleared for Early Completion

Sarnaik said the decision would significantly accelerate work on the ambitious project and clear the way for its early completion.

He also expressed gratitude to Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai and the officials present at the meeting for their support in advancing the project.