Maharashtra to deploy tourism security force at Gateway of India, Nariman Point

Maharashtra Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai has announced that a dedicated tourism security force will soon be deployed at two of Mumbai's most popular tourist destinations, the Gateway of India and Nariman Point. The decision follows the successful implementation of a similar force, known as 'Paryatan Mitra,' at the hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani over the last three months. The new force is intended to ensure safety, enhance crowd management, and improve the overall visitor experience at these high-footfall sites.

According to the minister, the pilot project in Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani, the first of its kind in the state, proved highly effective. Personnel successfully handled crowd control during peak tourist hours, ensured visitor safety, maintained smooth traffic flow, and even curbed instances of rash driving. Praising the force's performance, Desai stated that the same model would now be replicated in Mumbai. While the initial force was comprised of personnel from the Maharashtra State Security Corporation, the Mumbai contingent will be drawn from the Maharashtra State Ex-Servicemen Welfare Board.

The Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) will procure vehicles for the new force, and personnel will be provided with accommodation and legal training. The initiative is part of a broader state policy to boost tourism and instill confidence in travelers, particularly following a terror attack on tourists in another part of the country. The deployment of this specialized security force at key sites like the Gateway of India is a significant step towards creating a safer and more welcoming environment for both domestic and international visitors.