Palghar District Collector Dr. Indu Rani Jakhar has called for coordinated efforts among various government departments to develop the tribal-dominated talukas of Jawhar and Mokhada into sustainable tourism destinations while ensuring environmental conservation and creating livelihood opportunities for local communities.
The initiative forms part of a broader development strategy aimed at improving infrastructure, strengthening water security and promoting community-based tourism in the region.
Collector reviews development projects during field visit
Dr. Jakhar conducted a field visit on Friday along with senior officials from the Forest Department, Public Works Department (PWD) and Tribal Development Department to assess the progress of key infrastructure and public service projects.
According to a release issued by the district administration on Saturday, the visit focused on identifying development gaps and reviewing projects that could improve connectivity, tourism infrastructure and rural livelihoods.
The collector outlined a comprehensive vision for the region, emphasising the need to balance economic development with environmental sustainability.
Focus on tourism as a source of local employment
During the review, Jakhar stressed that tourism should be developed in a manner that benefits local communities while offering visitors a complete and enriching experience.
"Tourism must extend beyond attractions to create a complete visitor experience while acting as a catalyst for local employment," the district administration quoted her as saying.
Officials said the administration is exploring tourism models that generate income for tribal communities through hospitality, local services and eco-tourism activities.
Adventure tourism projects under development
As part of the tourism development plan, the collector reviewed a two-way zipline project at Kasatwadi being developed at an estimated cost of Rs 1.2 crore.
The project is expected to become operational within the next month and is aimed at attracting adventure tourism enthusiasts to the region.
She also reviewed plans for a proposed skywalk glass bridge near the popular Dabhosa waterfall. The project, estimated to cost around Rs 2 crore, is proposed to be developed under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model.
Officials believe such projects could help increase tourist footfall while creating economic opportunities for local residents.
Infrastructure and connectivity receive attention
To assess connectivity challenges in remote areas, Jakhar undertook a nearly four-kilometre trek through difficult terrain to reach Khairmal village.
Following the visit, she directed the Public Works Department to prepare a proposal for constructing a bridge on the Gatepada-Ayare route to improve access for residents and visitors.
Officials said improved road and bridge infrastructure will be crucial for supporting tourism growth and ensuring better access to essential services in remote tribal areas.
New Maha e-Seva Centre inaugurated in Mokhada
During her visit to Mokhada, the collector inaugurated a newly established Maha e-Seva Centre designed to improve access to government services for rural residents.
The centre is expected to facilitate quicker delivery of various citizen services and reduce the need for villagers to travel long distances for administrative work.
The administration said digital service centres are being promoted as part of efforts to improve governance and service delivery in tribal regions.
Water conservation measures prioritised ahead of monsoon
Water security was another key focus of the review.
Jakhar directed concerned departments to prioritise the desilting and repair of existing gabion structures and check dams across the region to enhance water storage capacity before the monsoon season.
Officials said strengthening water conservation infrastructure is essential for supporting agriculture, improving drinking water availability and ensuring long-term sustainability in tribal areas.
Community-led tourism models to be expanded
The district administration also plans to promote village homestay clusters under the Dharati Aaba Janjatiya initiative to encourage community participation in tourism.
Authorities are additionally looking to expand successful local tourism models such as the Jawhar Camping project at Dhaparpada, which has been developed with community involvement.
Officials believe that encouraging local participation in tourism-related activities can help generate sustainable income while preserving the region`s cultural and ecological heritage.
The administration said coordinated efforts across departments will be key to transforming Jawhar and Mokhada into tourism destinations that support both economic development and environmental conservation.
(With inputs from PTI)
* This article was originally published here
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