Steena Joy – Mumbai
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Pervaiz Mohammed
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Andaman and Nicobar Islands Integrated Development Corporation (ANIIDCO), a government enterprise of the Andaman and Nicobar administration, has lined up three resort development projects that are in the final stage of environmental clearances. Speaking exclusively to Express TrvaelWorld, Pervaiz Mohammed, general manager, ANIIDCO informed, “We are awaiting the environmental approval for all the three projects. Once we get the go ahead, work on the projects will start and they are expected to become operational in two years’ time.”
The three projects which will be implemented through private sector participation, include development of a beach resort at Havelock Island jointly with Indian Hotel Company (IHCL). The world class beach resort will have villas, a specialty restaurant, banquet facilities, health club, spa, water sports facility, etc. ANIIDCO has also entered into lease agreement with CGH Earth for development of another beach resort at Long Island. The proposal is for the construction of a five-star resort including an Ayurveda centre, diving centre, eco tour centre, yoga centre, art studio, library, etc.
The third project is with Soma Enterprises for development of a beach resort at Neil Island. The proposal is for the construction of a five-star boutique resort with villas including private swimming pool, restaurant, state-of-the-art gymnasium laced around a fresh water lake, water sports facility etc.
“Andamans has the potential to develop as a world class tourism destination. Setting up of these projects by leading hotel chains will boost tourism in the islands,” said Mohammed. “There is definitely a demand supply gap as far as good quality, high-end accommodation is concerned. There is a shortage of rooms especially during the peak season that is from October to March,” he added.
ANIIDCO already operates Megapode Resort – a three-star hotel, Megapode Camping Resort and an IATA approved air ticketing agency. Megapode Resort is spread on an area of 7.5 acres having 23 rooms and 10 cottages, with a multi-cuisine restaurant and conference cum banquet hall. The corporation has also leased a water sports facility at Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Port Blair to Ocean Blue offering facilities like jet skiing, speed boat ride, etc. ANIIDCO has also invited Expression of Interest (EOI) for development of a shopping complex cum multiplex and hotel in Port Blair.
