Tourists may soon have the opportunity to experience the wonders of the underwater world without the need for scuba gear. The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) is embarking on an ambitious project centered around the decommissioned Indian Navy warship INS Guldar. This initiative aims to introduce a state-of-the-art submersible, allowing non-divers to explore the mesmerizing marine ecosystem near Malvan’s Nivati Rocks.
The decommissioned INS Guldar will be submerged within the next 15 days, about 10 nautical miles from Sindhudurg Fort, after necessary preparations to clean harmful materials like oil and asbestos. Unlike some wrecks, the ship will be submerged without explosives. Instead, its underwater doors will be opened so it can fill with water and settle 50 meters below, creating an artificial reef. Once submerged, INS Guldar is expected to transform the area, fostering diverse fish populations and aiding the restoration of damaged reefs.
This initiative carries a project cost of approximately Rs 97 crore, with Rs 47 crore allocated for the ship’s preparation and scuttling, and Rs 50 crore for the development of the submersible and its accompanying mothership. Tourists will start their adventure from Malvan, where the mothership will ferry them close to the designated site.
A 22-seater submersible, accommodating two crew members, will then take visitors underwater to view the sunken ship and the developing marine ecosystem surrounding it. The MTDC plans to float international tenders within three months, prioritizing Mazagon Dock Ltd. It is anticipated the submersible will be operational within seven to eight months.
Describing the experience, one MTDC spokesperson commented, "Once submerged, INS Guldar is expected to transform... supporting fish populations and helping restore damaged reefs." This describes the dual purpose of not only serving tourism but also aiding ecological recovery.
Passengers aboard the submersible will enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking marine life as they descend beneath the surface. This endeavor to enrich the tourism sector promises to be not just visually stunning but also offers significant educational aspects about marine ecosystems.
The move reflects Maharashtra’s commitment to integrate tourism with sustainable practices, ensuring local ecosystems are preserved and thriving. Tourists, who may have never had access to such underwater experiences, will now have the rare chance to explore the conservation and beauty of marine environments.
With the growing interest in marine tourism globally, projects like this could place Maharashtra on the map as a top destination for underwater excursions. Not only does it provide unique experiences, but it also strengthens the local economy by attracting tourism dollars.
Officials are optimistic as preparations progress, and community engagement is likely to promote awareness about the importance of marine conservation. Overall, the combination of history, technology, and nature will bring forth opportunities for both enjoyment and education.