Maharashtra govt launches dedicated security force for tourists

Shambhuraj Desai, Maharashtra tourism minister

In order to ensure the safety of tourists visiting Maharashtra, the state government has decided to establish-Maharashtra Tourism Security Force (MTSF). The decision to form this force was taken on Monday. The force, which would be referred to as Tourist Mitra, comes a week after the terror attack on tourists in Pahalgam.

The force on a pilot basis will be launched from May 1, as the four days of the Mahabaleshwar festival commences in the Satara district. Explaining about the decision to set up the force, Shambhuraj Desai, tourism minister said, "The objective is to provide a safe tourism experience to tourists."

The minister further mentioned that besides safety, the force members will be providing information to tourists about the cultural, heritage and other history of the respective tourist destination. Candidates selected for the job will have to undergo special training for this purpose.

Desai mentioned, "The decision will not only provide safety, but even create employment opportunities." The government has asked the State Security Board to give a detailed listing of its employees to take the proposal ahead. Besides setting up forces, the minister has asked the department to ensure availability of facilities like CCTV, helpline and immediate response system at the tourists destinations.

Glass skywalk proposed at Malshej Ghat

Deputy CM Ajit Pawar on Monday instructed the state administration to prepare a proposal for the construction of a glass skywalk in Malshej Ghat, a popular tourist destination. "Within 30 days, the proposal for the skywalk should be submitted to the department," Pawar said, further instructing that during construction, eco-sensitive areas should be excluded from proposal.