Planned Development of Chondi to Boost Tourism: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis

Mumbai, April 2026 : Devendra Fadnavis on Monday emphasised that the planned and holistic development of Chondi village will play a key role in promoting tourism, while also preserving the legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar for future generations.

Chairing a high-level meeting at his official residence ‘Varsha’, the Chief Minister reviewed the conservation, preservation, and development master plan for the memorial site of Ahilyabai Holkar at Chondi. The meeting was attended by Legislative Council Chairman Ram Shinde and senior officials from various departments, including finance, public works, tourism, planning, and water resources.

Fadnavis stated that several development projects have been initiated to transform Chondi into a major cultural and tourist destination, inspired by the life and contributions of Ahilyabai Holkar. He stressed that the development must be inclusive, well-planned, and supported by high-quality infrastructure to attract visitors and generate economic opportunities.

A budget allocation of Rs 681 crore has been made for the comprehensive development of the memorial site. Key components of the project include the installation of a grand statue, landscaped gardens, riverfront development, a modern museum, an open-air theatre, and a dedicated tourist facilitation centre. These initiatives aim to create a rich cultural experience for visitors while highlighting the historical significance of the site.

The Chief Minister placed special emphasis on water management measures to ensure a sustainable and continuous water supply within the memorial complex. He directed officials to prioritise efficient water conservation strategies while maintaining a balance between green spaces and open areas to enhance the overall aesthetic appeal of the site.

He also instructed authorities to conduct on-site inspections for the construction of barrages as an alternative to traditional check dams, with a focus on long-term water sustainability. Land acquisition for the temple area is expected to be carried out using funds from the District Planning Committee.

Highlighting the importance of public-private collaboration, Fadnavis said the government is considering adopting the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model for developing and maintaining certain facilities under the project. This approach, he noted, would help ensure better quality infrastructure, improved efficiency, and long-term sustainability of tourism services.

In addition, the Public Works Department has already issued work orders for two road projects worth Rs 360 crore to improve connectivity to the site. Officials from the forest, irrigation, public works departments, and the local gram panchayat have jointly completed land measurements and boundary demarcation required for the project.

The Chief Minister reiterated that the development of the Chondi memorial is being carried out in a phased and systematic manner to ensure proper execution and long-term impact.

Speaking at the meeting, Ram Shinde highlighted that the development plan aims to integrate history, culture, and tourism while also boosting local development and employment generation. He added that efforts are being made to enhance the area’s beauty through landscaping, water features, and green zones, alongside the creation of essential infrastructure for tourists.

With a strong focus on heritage preservation and modern amenities, the Maharashtra government aims to transform Chondi into a prominent tourist destination that honours the legacy of Ahilyabai Holkar while contributing to regional growth.