Dwarka: The Gujarat government is set to launch a submarine service for tourists to explore the marine life in Dwarka, an ancient city submerged under the sea.
A memorandum has been signed between the state government and Mazgaon Dock shipbuilders for the project in Dwarka, known as the ‘city of the Hindu God Lord Krishna.’
This will be India’s first underwater tourism facility using a submarine. The government intends to make the project operational before Diwali in October 2024.
Under this project, tourists will go 100 meters underwater in a submarine to experience marine life. Each submarine can hold 24 visitors and will be guided by two experienced pilots and a professional crew. The vessel is designed to have windows, ensuring all passengers can enjoy the view.
The government aims to boost tourism in Dwarka, a prominent temple town, by introducing the submarine facility, attracting a large number of visitors daily.
Saurabh Pardhi, Managing Director of Gujarat Tourism, said that this is a unique project with the potential to significantly boost tourism in the city.
Tourists will be transported to the sea near Dwarka in a submarine for a comfortable view of underwater marine life. The project’s primary goal is to promote tourism in Gujarat and enhance facilities for visitors to religious sites. Pardhi assured that passenger safety is a top priority.
The mystery surrounding Dwarka, its past as a flourishing city, and its eventual submersion has spurred many archaeological explorations along the Indian coastline. These expeditions uncovered sunken walls from an ancient fortified city, along with pottery, sculptures, and various artifacts.
Dwarka remains a well-visited spiritual pilgrimage site. The renowned Dwarkadhish Temple, also called Jagat Mandir, stands as a significant place of worship and a notable landmark in present-day Dwarka. The submarine tourism project not only has the potential to transform Gujarat’s tourism scene but also aims to generate employment opportunities and attract investments to the region, according to the state government’s initiative.