AHMEDABAD: The state budget gave a Rs 6,505 crore push to the tourism sector in Gujarat, a 31% increase compared to last year. The govt plans to construct 150 roads to improve connectivity to key sites and introduce 200 air-conditioned buses.
To further promote tourism, the budget allocates Rs 360 crore to fund 200 premium AC buses and 10 caravans to connect 25 tourist and pilgrimage destinations. Rs 30 crore is allocated under the regional connectivity scheme (UDAN) to improve air links.
The budget earmarks Rs 15 crore for new circuits and basic facilities. Infrastructure upgrades are also planned for pilgrimage centres such as Dwarka, Somnath, Becharaji, Pavagadh, Siddhpur, Kapadvanj, Patan and Palitana to encourage investment and employment. Rs 180 crore is set aside for developing Adhya Shakti Amba Dham in Ambaji.
The govt plans to develop district tourism development societies to promote local tourism.