Maharashtra launches India's first underwater tourism project with decommissioned INS Guldar, to serve as an artificial reef and a diving attraction, what is special about it?
Maharashtra has taken a significant stride in the field of adventure tourism. By scuttling the decommissioned naval warship—the former INS Guldar—near the Sindhudurg coast, the state has established India's first underwater tourism site.
This former Indian Navy vessel was scuttled at a depth of approximately 22 meters near Nivati Rock. It forms part of a marine tourism project being developed by the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) in collaboration with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited.
Officials believe that this project has the potential to transform Sindhudurg into a major attraction for scuba divers, underwater photographers, and marine tourism enthusiasts from both India and abroad.
Tourism Minister Shambhuraj Desai stated that this initiative marks the inception of a new form of experiential tourism in the country. It offers visitors the unique opportunity to view a submerged warship while simultaneously allowing them to experience marine life up close.
Tourists will first travel by speedboat to Nivati Rock, where a stationary barge has been stationed to facilitate snorkeling and scuba diving activities. MTDC officials informed that details regarding bookings, diving schedules, and visitor amenities will soon be made available on the corporation's official platforms.
The project has received funding from both the Central Government and the Government of Maharashtra. While the Central Government sanctioned Rs 46.91 crore, the State Government allocated Rs 112.46 crore for this initiative.
The former INS Guldar, a Magar-class Landing Ship Tank of the Indian Navy, served for nearly four decades before being decommissioned in January 2024. Commissioned in Poland in 1985, this ship was utilized for troop transport, amphibious operations, coastal security, and naval exercises.
Prior to its scuttling on May 19, 2026, the ship underwent environmental cleaning and decontamination. This specific site near Sindhudurg was selected following studies conducted by the Maharashtra Maritime Board and the National Institute of Oceanography.
Marine experts anticipate that this structure will gradually evolve into an artificial coral reef. This will create a habitat for fish and other marine life, while also boosting the region's biodiversity.
This concept draws inspiration from internationally renowned "wreck-diving" sites, such as the USS Oriskany in Florida and the HMAS Swan in Australia. Officials are optimistic that this project will boost tourism and generate employment opportunities across Sindhudurg and the entire Konkan region, thereby benefiting local hotels, transport operators, restaurants, and tourism-related businesses.
Through the former INS Guldar project, Maharashtra aims to establish itself as a premier destination for underwater and adventure tourism in India.