Maharashtra to Sink INS Guldar for Scuba Tourism and Marine Conservation
| Summary/Static | Details |
|---|---|
| Why in the news? | INS Guldar to Be Sunk Off Sindhudurg for Scuba Tourism Boost |
| Ship Name | INS Guldar |
| Ship Class | Kumbhir-class landing ship |
| Ship Length | 83 meters |
| Commissioned | 1985 |
| Decommissioned | January 2024 |
| Location | Nivati Rocks, Sindhudurg, Maharashtra |
| Purpose | Artificial reef for scuba diving & marine conservation |
| Tourism Impact | Expected to boost scuba diving tourism and create jobs |
| Economic Benefits | Potential annual revenue of ₹50 crore, employment for scuba instructors, tourism operators, and retired naval personnel |
| Environmental Measures | Pollutants like hydraulic and engine oils, asbestos, and hazardous materials removed before sinking |
| Project Timeline | Approximately three months for preparation and safe submersion |
| Project Cost | ₹20 crore (Estimated) |
| Global Examples | USS Spiegel Grove (USA), Thai Royal Navy Ships (Thailand), similar projects in Australia, Canada, and Europe |
| State Initiative | Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) promoting Sindhudurg as a diving hub |
| Training Plans | Divers to be trained for safe exploration of the sunken warship |