The Andaman and Nicobar administration has approved four major eco-tourism projects across the islands, aiming to boost sustainable tourism. Three new luxury resorts will be developed on Long Island, Aves Island, and Shaheed Dweep, while the existing Megapode Resort in Sri Vijaya Puram will be upgraded through a public-private partnership. Designed to meet international sustainability standards, the resorts will operate with renewable energy, maintain low ecological impact, and offer premium tourism experiences. Aves Island, previously uninhabited, is set to become a key attraction after Swaraj Dweep, with facilities including adventure activities and wellness amenities.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands administration has awarded contracts to three leading hospitality groups to develop luxury eco-tourism resorts at Long Island, Aves Island, and Shaheed Dweep (Neil Island). Another group has been selected to redevelop the existing Megapode Resort in Sri Vijaya Puram under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation Limited (ANIIDCO) has approved the applications for designing, building, financing, operating, and transferring these five-star eco-tourism resorts on a PPP basis. According to an official, letters of award for all four projects have been issued, marking a significant step toward promoting sustainable, tourism-led growth in the region.
Revenue-sharing details have been finalised: the Megapode Resort will share 3.6% of its revenue, Shaheed Dweep 3%, and both Long Island and Aves Island 2%. The concession period is set at 50 years for Megapode Resort and 75 years for the other three projects, including construction time.
The official added that the administration aims to position the archipelago as a premier destination for responsible and nature-centric tourism. The resorts are being planned to comply with international sustainability standards, such as LEED, GRIHA, and Green Globe, and will adhere to Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) and other environmental norms.
Each resort will feature low-impact designs and self-sustaining systems, primarily powered by renewable energy like solar power, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural environment and seamless integration with the islands landscapes.
Aves Island, also known as Coconut Island, is currently uninhabited and has never before been opened for tourism. The planned five-star resort will occupy 2.75 hectares and include 50 rooms. Visitors will have access to activities such as shopping for local souvenirs, scuba diving, game fishing, forest trekking, nature camping, and a wellness centre. The project represents an investment of nearly INR 36 crore.
The Long Island resort will feature up to 220 rooms, with a total project investment of approximately INR 391 crore. The Shaheed Dweep resort will offer 120 rooms and has an estimated project cost of around INR 172 crore. Once completed, these resorts are expected to enhance the tourism profile of the islands, providing high-quality, eco-friendly accommodations for both domestic and international travelers.
Source PTI
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