Mumbai, March 12 (NationPress) The Transport Minister of Maharashtra, Pratap Sarnaik, announced on Thursday to the Legislative Council that the state government is set to construct modern ‘busports’ following the successful model implemented in Gujarat.

A new policy has been devised aimed at the holistic enhancement of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) depots and bus terminals.

The minister's remarks came in response to a half-hour discussion initiated by MLC Pravin Darekar regarding this initiative.

Sarnaik highlighted that with the support of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar, new state transport bus stations will be constructed across Maharashtra, featuring improved passenger amenities.

The new policy emphasizes extended lease terms, enhanced passenger facilities, economic benefits, and equitable regional development.

“To promote commercial growth, the lease agreement for ST bus station and depot projects has been established at 49 + 49 years (totaling 98 years). This regulation is intended to attract investors and secure long-term revenue for the MSRTC.

“This initiative will ensure that passengers enjoy clean, safe, and modern facilities. These projects are anticipated to create substantial employment and business prospects for the local youth.

“The initiative will not be limited to urban areas. To ensure balanced development, tenders will be processed by grouping depots into ‘packages’ comprising one urban depot, one taluka-level depot, and one rural depot,” he noted.

Sarnaik underscored that the ‘packaging’ model would guarantee that bus stations in rural regions are developed alongside their urban counterparts.

In a related discussion, Minister of State for Finance Ashish Jaiswal informed the Legislative Council about Maharashtra's ample natural resources, rich historical heritage, and religious sites.

He asserted that effectively leveraging these assets for tourism could significantly enhance the state economy.

With the vision of “Viksit Maharashtra 2047” (Developed Maharashtra 2047), 50 tourist attractions throughout the state will be developed under the Regional Tourism Scheme.

Jaiswal stated that at least one tourist site in each district will be developed as part of this initiative.

This announcement was made during a half-hour discussion led by MLC Ranjitsinh Mohite Patil concerning tourism development around the Ujani Dam area.

The minister identified four key areas for development: water sports, forest tourism, heritage sites, and religious tourism.

“The state government is prioritizing these projects to enhance tourist influx and create significant employment opportunities. A Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model will be applied to expedite tourism ventures.

“To effectively utilize water bodies for tourism, departments such as Water Resources and Tourism will collaborate,” he further added.

Jaiswal confirmed that administrative approval has been granted for tourism development around the Ujani Dam region.

He mentioned that a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Water Resources Department is necessary for the project.

He reassured the House that essential measures would be taken to quicken the project’s progression and mentioned his intention to personally visit the Ujani Dam site for progress assessment.