The Hindu Business Line : Pondy plans yacht marina

THE Department of Tourism, is planning to set up a yacht marina in Pondicherry as part of its overall plan in developing tourism infrastructure, according to Mr A.V. Nagarajan, Director of Tourism, Government of Pondicherry.

The department has called for expression of interest for the preparation of project reports from consultant or consortiums for the comprehensive development of a marina for ocean-going yachts at the mouth of the Ariankuppam River at Pondicherry either through private sector participation or through a joint venture with the Government. Mr Nagarajan said the consultant would have to work out the total cost of the project along with the feasibility study of the project.

The site for the marina is in the vicinity of both the famous Arikkamedu archaeological site, which had been identified for development as a culture tourism centre, and the proposed Arts & Crafts Village and other related tourism projects. Mr Nagarajan said that this would be the first marina — a harbour with moorings for yachts — on the Coromandel Coast. The only other marina is in Kerala, he said.

The proposed site of the yacht marina is in the mouth of the Ariankuppam River (closer to the New Port) at Pondicherry and is expected to provide berthing facilities as well as private boating and recreational areas with moorings and jetties. The marina must have all the requisite infrastructure and communication facilities.

Pondicherry with its Indo-French heritage and spiritual ambience has always attracted a number of international tourists, however, in the past few years the number of domestic tourists has also gone up.

Pondicherry, which has an annual plan allocation of Rs 7-8 crore for development, attracts around four lakh visitors every year. Mr Nagarajan said that it is hoped that this number could be doubled in the coming year. The exercise of building of the Pondicherry brand has already started, with the campaign starting from June 1, he said.

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