Inbound

MP to focus on water tourism

Reema Sisodia - Bhopal

Tourism has become a major thrust area for Madhya Pradesh (MP) and the state as part of its development plans for the year 2007-2008 is planning to focus on adding new attractions in the sphere of water based tourism. Plans are afloat to develop various water tourism attractions. These attractions include rafting in Orchha, development of cruising and water sport activities in Benni Sagar Lake on the outskirts of Khajuraho, developing cruise circuit from Bargi to Mandala and shikara rides on Upper Lake in Bhopal along with inauguration of a boat club in May this year. The state will also be receiving Rs five crore for development of circuit tourism. State-of-the-art sight seeing buses were also launched in Bhopal, Kanha and Pachmarhi. Another interesting project is the launch of an unique restaurant in Bhopal, one, which will recreate the complete ambience of a railway platform including a boogey with 35 covers on a stretch of tracks.

These and a host of other tourism projects in the pipeline reflect the efforts of the team of Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (MPTDC) led by minister for tourism, Srimant Yashodhara Raje Scindia to transform the state as a leading tourism destination in India. Speaking about the new `avatar' of the state and its tourism strategy, Ashwani Lohani, managing director, Madhya Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (MPTDC), says, "We are extremely focused about tourism development and we believe in letting our work speak. We first decided to put our house in order, which I can proudly say that the task has been achieved and now we are ready to welcome people to the state. We have a brilliant product and we are also sound with regards to our marketing and promotional strategy both in the local as well as the international market. Our agenda is to bring MP on the minds of the people and for it to have immediate brand recall." The recent catchy campaign aired on various television channels showcases the varied tourism products of the state. Apart from aggressive marketing the state is also working overtime to improve tourism related infrastructure. MP is also working on improving air connectivity and increase flights. At present the state has five functional airports. Efforts are on to develop and operate airports in virgin locations.