Andaman tourism open to foreign investors

Monday, 21 October 2002, 19:30 IST
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PORT BLAIR: The sun-kissed Andaman and Nicobar islands in India have thrown the door open for foreign players to tap the vast tourism potential in the picturesque archipelago in the Bay of Bengal. Floating in splendid isolation east of the Indian mainland are the 572 emerald islands, islets and rocks known as the Andaman and Nicobar islands. This federally administered territory stretches over 800 km from north to south, with 36 inhabited islands. The sea around the islands offers scope for water sports. The rare flora and fauna, underwater marine life and corals, with crystal clear waters and mangrove-lined creeks, offer a dream view of the gifts of nature. Adventure tourism like trekking, camping, snorkeling and scuba diving are the main attractions for the few vacationers who flock here. Given the limited carrying capacity of the islands, the Andaman and Nicobar administration, based in Port Blair, has decided to focus on high value, low volume and eco-friendly tourism. Developmental activities not harmful to the natural beauty and the ecosystem would be allowed, officials here say. The islands' tourism director said, "Earlier we had published advertisements attracting foreign investors, but the response was poor. But this month we have been getting quite a good response. "At present negotiations are on with an Australian party willing to invest at Lalaji Bay in the Andaman island," he added. The official said the administration would welcome private -- including foreign -- investment in the development of high quality resorts, golf courses and adventure water sports. Many islands are already receiving tourists and more are expected to be thrown open for vacationers. The Indian government has already allowed chartered flights from foreign countries to land in Port Blair. The administration is now in the process of getting international status for the airport here. The government is considering developing floating cottages in creeks and inlets, treetop cottages in the evergreen forests, water safaris, scuba dive centers and arranging for glass-bottomed boats for viewing corals. While 100 percent investment is allowed in the sector, the island administration said it would prefer joint venture projects with one of the partners being from India
Source: IANS
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