The move follows the success of a similar initiative in the hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani
A dedicated tourism security force will soon be deployed at two of Mumbai’s busiest landmarks — the Gateway of India and Nariman Point — to improve safety and crowd management, Maharashtra tourism minister Shambhuraj Desai has announced.
The move follows the success of a similar initiative in the hill stations of Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani, where the specially trained unit has been managing crowds during peak tourist seasons.
“The tourism security force has performed exceptionally well in Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani over the last three months. Taking inspiration from this success, we will soon launch the initiative in Mumbai at the Gateway of India and Nariman Point,” Desai said.
The minister recently chaired a review meeting with district officials, police, representatives of the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and engineers from the public works department. He said the force had proved effective in managing crowds, ensuring visitor safety, maintaining traffic flow, resolving disputes and curbing rash driving in the hill stations.
“This is the first time such a concept was implemented in the state, and the personnel have done a commendable job. The same model will be replicated in Mumbai,” he added. The MTDC will provide vehicles for the force, including four-wheelers and two-wheelers.
While Mahabaleshwar and Panchgani’s force is staffed by officers from the Maharashtra State Security Corporation, Mumbai’s contingent will comprise personnel from the Maharashtra State Ex-Servicemen Welfare Board. Accommodation facilities have already been arranged, and officials will receive legal training before deployment.