State government has set a target of attracting private investments to the tune of Rs.10,000 crore in tourism sector over the next five years, beginning with at least Rs.1,000 crore during 2015-16.
Giving a major push to private investments in the tourism sector will be the main thrust of the State’s new tourism policy, which will come up for discussion at the next Cabinet meeting on May 4.
Explaining the broad approach of the proposed policy, official sources told The Hindu here on Thursday that unlike in the past when some of the major infrastructure projects in tourism sector used to be funded through AP Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) or Government of India, the State government would act more like a facilitator and promote private investment in a big way.
The sources said the policy would promote ease of doing business and the government was considering offering various incentives, including VAT related. The State’s Tourism Department has already identified Rs.18,000 crore worth of projects which include development of beach resorts along Vizag-Bheemili corridor, riverside resorts in the backwaters of the picturesque Konaseema, a ropeway project in each of the 13 districts, cruise/ small boat services and setting up of modern convention centres in each district.
Other projects include amusement parks, hotels, water sports, light and sound shows, development of heritage sites, pilgrim centres and Buddhist circuit. A Switzerland-based company has evinced interest in developing a water park, while another Indian firm was keen to enter into the entertainment segment.
While the number of tourists to Andhra Pradesh, including those visiting the temple town of Tirupati currently was 98 million per year, the State Tourism department has set a target to almost double it by 2020.
Besides ensuring last mile connectivity and essential services in terms of roads, water and electricity supply, the government would clear tourism projects within 21 days. The Tourism department would tie-up with Industries Department and leverage its single-desk mechanism to give approvals for projects within 21 days.
