The Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways has unveiled a plan to transform 75 lighthouses across 10 States and Union Territories into tourist destinations, integrating heritage preservation with modern tourism facilities. Union Minister Shri Sarbananda Sonowal shared the initiative in a written reply to the Rajya Sabha today.
The Mahabalipuram Lighthouse in Tamil Nadu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a focal point of this project and is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. Planned facilities include museums, amphitheaters, open-air theaters, cafeterias, children’s play areas, and landscaped spaces, making these lighthouses attractive tourism hubs.
The initiative spans iconic locations across India, including North Point in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Aguada in Goa, Dwarka in Gujarat, Surathkal in Karnataka, Alappuzha in Kerala, Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, Puri in Odisha, Kanniyakumari in Tamil Nadu, and Sagar Island in West Bengal.
This ambitious project aims to promote coastal tourism, showcasing India’s maritime heritage while creating economic opportunities. By blending modern amenities with historical charm, these lighthouses will serve as unique attractions for domestic and international tourists alike, highlighting the untapped potential of India’s coastal landmarks.
