(a) whether the Government is developing light houses in the country particularly in Visakhapatnam and other coastal areas in Andhra Pradesh to attract the tourists; and
(b) if so, the details thereof and the funds allocated and spent for this purpose, State/UT-wise during the last three years?
MINISTER OF STATE FOR TOURISM (INDEPENDENT CHARGE)(DR. MAHESH SHARMA)
(a): Yes, Madam.
(b): The Ministry of Shipping has identified Light Houses for development from touristic point of view at three different places in the country. The details of the funds allocated and spent for the same are as below:
(Rs. in lakhs) Sl.No. State/UTs Location of Lighthouse Fund Allocated Fund Spent 1. Tamil Nadu Mahabalipuram 155 155 2. Tamil Nadu Madras 75 75 3. Maharashtra Kanhoji Angre 82.18 82For Visakhapatnam, Dolphin Nose Light House was identified for development of Tourism. The approach to Dolphin Nose is through Naval Defence Area and as such a decision was taken to drop the proposal. No other lighthouse, in the coastal area of Andhra Pradesh, is being developed for tourism purpose at present.