In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Maharashtra cabinet on Thursday approved the ‘beach shack’ policy for eight beaches along the Konkan coast to give the tourism sector a boost in the state. Temporary Goa-style shacks would be put up along the beaches dotting the state’s long coastline. As reported by india.com, the decision was approved at a Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray according to a state official.
The project will be kickstarted with shacks coming up on beaches in Guhagar and Arevare in Ratnagiri, Kunkeshwar and Tarkarli in Sindhudurg, Versoli and Diveagar in Raigad, and Kelve and Bordi in Palghar district, according to a statement issued by the Chief Minister’s office. Those interested in putting up such temporary shacks can apply through the state tourism website for 2021, and other beaches will also be incorporated in the policy in phases, as per the official statement. The statement also said that shacks can come up in areas approved by the tourism directorate with permits from the state coastal area management authority. It also stated that priority will be given to locals. 80 per cent of jobs generated in these establishments will be given to locals.
As per the press release, the shacks will be equipped with CCTV cameras, and can function from 7 am to 7 pm.
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