Deputy CM Eknath Shinde Reviews Development Plan of New Mahabaleshwar Hill Station Region

Satara : Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde today held a meeting at Dare village in Satara district to review the development plan of the New Mahabaleshwar Hill Station Region.

Present at the meeting were District Collector Santosh Patil, Superintendent of Police Tushar Doshi, Zilla Parishad CEO Yashni Nagarajan, Deputy Conservator of Forests Aditi Bhardwaj, Director of Town Planning Jitendra Bhopale, Sub-Divisional Officer Rajendra Kachare, Tehsildar Tejaswini Patil, and MTDC Regional Manager Hanumant Hede, among others.

For the first time since Independence, an area of 1,153 square kilometers has been declared as the New Mahabaleshwar Hill Station Region. This area includes 265 villages spread across four talukas—Mahabaleshwar, Patan, Jawali, and Satara. Numerous projects aimed at boosting tourism in the region have been proposed.

Tourism Development Hubs and Adventure Activities

The government plans to set up Tourism Development Centers that will act as central hubs, linking nearby “tourism gardens” or eco-tourism zones. One such proposed hub is the Bamnoli Water Tourism Development Center, which will include camping sites, adventure sports, boating, and ropeway activities.

Additionally, Home Stay and Agro-Tourism schemes will be implemented in 20 villages, allowing tourists to experience rural life and local culture firsthand.

Industrial Prosperity Centers and Infrastructure

The development blueprint includes the establishment of 14 Industrial Prosperity Centers focused on:

• Agri-processing
• Finished products
• Bamboo-based goods
• Herbal and medicinal products

A total of 44 village clusters will be developed to improve connectivity, healthcare, education, and basic infrastructure.

In terms of tourism, a total of 147 eco-tourism gardens (tourism nandanvans) are proposed:

• 30 in Mahabaleshwar
• 33 in Jawali
• 27 in Satara
• 57 in Patan

These locations will feature systematic afforestation, enhanced tourist amenities, safe travel routes, comfortable lodging and dining, and an overall pleasant experience, making them attractive destinations. The project is expected to generate significant revenue for the state.

Phased Development with Wellness Initiatives

The development plan will be implemented in phases — short-term, mid-term, and long-term. Notably, a Naturopathy Center is proposed on five acres, and a Botanical Garden spanning 100 acres is planned with support from the Ministry of AYUSH.

The government believes this initiative will not only boost tourism and revenue but also provide a sustainable model of regional development, integrating wellness, eco-tourism, local employment, and community participation.