Maharashtra’s First ‘AquaFest’ Water Tourism Festival Kicks Off in Jalgaon

Tourism Minister Girish Mahajan Announces ₹15 Crore for Water Sports Development and ₹20 Crore for Beautification

Jalgaon : Tourism is becoming an emerging industry in Maharashtra, with many large projects being launched by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation. The state, rich in forts, water bodies, and forests, is adopting new tourism policies to boost its sector. As part of this initiative, Tourism Minister Girish Mahajan has announced ₹15 crore for the development of water sports tourism at Mehrun Talawat in Jalgaon, with immediate action to begin on the technical front. Additionally, ₹20 crore has been allocated for the beautification of Mehrun Talawat Chowpatty, making it a key tourist attraction both locally and beyond.

Minister Mahajan made this announcement during the inauguration of Maharashtra’s first three-day ‘AquaFest’ water tourism festival at Mehrun Talawat. The event was attended by MP Smita Wagh, MLA Suresh Bhole, MLA Sanjay Savkare, MTDC’s Administrative Director Manoj Kumar Suryavanshi, District Magistrate Ayush Prasad, Municipal Commissioner Dnyaneshwar Dhare, MTDC General Administrator Chandrashekhar Jaiswal, Regional Administrator Jagdish Chavan, and other officials.

Jalgaon district has become a water tourism hub, attracting visitors from across India and abroad. Various tourist spots are being developed in the region, and Mehrun Talawat’s water tourism project, with its newly announced ₹15 crore funding, is set to enhance the district’s appeal. After finalizing technical details, the project will commence soon, said Minister Mahajan, expressing confidence in its success. Additionally, the ₹20 crore beautification project for Mehrun Talawat Chowpatty will make it a major attraction.

State Tourism Policy
Maharashtra boasts a 750-kilometer-long coastline with immense tourism potential. In line with this, a scuba diving project will soon begin near Sindhudurg, allowing tourists to explore underwater marine life, including various species of aquatic animals, fish, and plants. To accommodate foreign tourists, Maharashtra will also see the opening of its first five-star hotel, the Taj Hotel. The Minister also announced the launch of the Deccan Odyssey, a luxury train that will travel not just across the state but throughout the country, offering 24-hour onboard accommodation and services.

During the AquaFest, Tourism Minister Girish Mahajan enjoyed a thrilling speedboat ride, taking in the water tourism experience along with MPs and MLAs. Riding at 90 kilometers per hour, the boat circled Mehrun Talawat, providing a joyful and exciting experience for the Minister.