Lighthouses: From Guiding Ships to Welcoming Tourists

Today, the Union Minister of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Shri Sarbananda Sonowal, held a meeting to boost tourism at Vizhinijam Lighthouse in Kerala. The Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships organized the event. The goal is to make lighthouses attractive spots for tourists by highlighting their history, culture, and beautiful views.

“More than 500,000 tourists visited lighthouses between April and June 2024. This shows that our plan to turn these historic places into tourist attractions is working,” said Shri Sonowal. New features like a Sound and Light show and other facilities will be added to make visits comfortable for everyone, especially older adults and people with disabilities.

Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the government is dedicated to promoting lighthouse tourism. This meeting was a step to show how lighthouses can become exciting tourist spots, benefiting the local economy and communities.

The meeting brought together government officials, tourism agencies, local communities, and private companies. They discussed the benefits of lighthouse tourism, like boosting the local economy, and also talked about challenges and how to overcome them.

Shri Sonowal said, “India’s diverse geography gives us a chance to showcase our rich culture and history. Lighthouses not only guide ships but also have historical value. Under Prime Minister Modi’s leadership, we aim to turn these lighthouses into tourist attractions, celebrating our maritime heritage.”

Earlier this year, PM Narendra Modi dedicated 75 lighthouses with tourist facilities in 10 states and Union Territories. This idea was suggested by the Prime Minister during his radio show, Mann Ki Baat. The meeting was also attended by the Minister of Tourism, Kerala, Adv PA Mohammed Riyas, and other top officials.

To make Vizhinjam Lighthouse more tourist-friendly, several new facilities have been added. These include a children’s play area, an acupressure pathway, and a musical fountain. A lift has been installed for easier access, and selfie points with animal statues, a cafeteria, and a gazebo have been added for visitors to enjoy. Battery-operated cars are available for transporting elderly and disabled tourists. These improvements are expected to increase the number of visitors.

The Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships is promoting lighthouse tourism under the MIV 2030 initiative. This includes turning lighthouses into heritage and maritime museums. Notable transformations include lighthouses in Chennai, Alleppey, Kannur, Vizhinjam, Thangasseri, Vypin, and Chandrabhaga. The Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047 aims to further develop lighthouses as tourist spots, helping local economies and promoting cultural exchange.

Key Insights:

  • 500,000 tourists visited lighthouses from April to June 2024.
  • New facilities like a Sound and Light show and accessibility features are being added.
  • The government is focused on turning lighthouses into tourist spots to boost the local economy and celebrate maritime heritage.

Source: Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, Government of India


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