Union Minister for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways Sarbananda Sonowal has said that the next big plan of the government in tourism is formulating a strategy to enhance the ecosystem of yacht tourism and personal boating. Despite India’s vast 7,500 kilometre coastline, the country doesn’t have a single marina or docking facility that meets international standards. Marinas basically function as a docking facility, often designed for luxury sailboats and yachts.
“Along with cruise tourism, we are going to add a new dimension by developing the ecosystem for yacht tourism in India,” Sonowal stated, PTI reported
He stressed the need for proper facilities and added that that while India is a vast nation, “we don’t have a place [international-standard marina] where yachts can be parked.” Sonowal compared this situation to Croatia, a much smaller country that boasts docking facilities for 15,000 yachts.
The minister highlighted the economic benefits of yacht tourism and noted that each yacht can create approximately 20 jobs. Countries in the West, particularly Croatia and Italy, have capitalised on their extensive coastlines by developing marina projects that support this industry.
Meanwhile, Sonowal on the occasion of World Rivers Day said shared a post on X and highlighted the importance of rivers and waterways. Rivers play a vital role in shaping landscapes, influencing climate, and supporting transportation.
They are weaved into human culture and feature prominently in art, literature, and history. Despite their significance, rivers encounter serious threats, like pollution from industrial waste, chemicals, and untreated sewage. Moreover, deforestation leads to soil erosion and disrupts the ecosystem of rivers.
Climate change too is impacting the flow of river water temperatures and biodiversity. World Rivers Day serves as a crucial reminder of the need to protect rivers and their ecosystems. Educational initiatives and campaigns are essential for raising awareness, helping the public understand the importance of rivers and how to safeguard them.