Beached Bangladeshi Vessel MV Maa to Transform into ‘Shore and Ship Resort’ by April
Visakhapatnam: The Bangladeshi freight ship MV Maa, which ran aground near Tenneti Park in Visakhapatnam in 2020, is set to be developed into a unique tourist destination by April, according to officials. The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (APTDC) plans to convert the abandoned vessel into a ‘Shore and Ship Resort’ in collaboration with Gill Marines, provided the final permissions are secured from the Andhra Pradesh Coastal Zone Management Authority (CZMA).
The 3,000-tonne Bangladeshi cargo ship drifted ashore on October 13, 2020, during a cyclonic storm while waiting to load cargo at the Visakhapatnam Anchorage Port. The vessel lost two anchors and eventually grounded on the rocky shore near the foothills of Kailasagiri. After several unsuccessful rescue and recovery attempts, its owner, Advance Shipping Limited of Dhaka, declared it abandoned. The ship’s insurers, North of England, took over and proposed scrapping the vessel before Gill Marines stepped in with a tourism-centric proposal.
A Vision for Tourism The proposal to transform the MV Maa into a tourist attraction has been in the pipeline since 2021 when the then YSRCP government suggested developing it as a floating restaurant. The current plan goes beyond that, aiming to create a resort-like experience. “We are envisioning a Shore and Ship Resort that offers visitors an immersive experience with the sea. The ship’s strategic location at Tenneti Park will also enhance the overall tourism potential of Visakhapatnam,” said Surender Singh Gill, Managing Director of Shore & Ship Resorts Private Limited (Gill Marines).
Mr. Gill highlighted that around ₹5 lakh per month is currently being spent on the ship’s maintenance, including essential work such as painting to prevent rusting. However, the project’s fruition hinges on the necessary approvals. “I don’t think Coastal Regulatory Zone (CRZ) norms will be breached as we are not undertaking any construction activities. During her visit to Visakhapatnam, I explained this to Tourism Department Managing Director Amrapali Kata, and she assured us of expediting the formalities,” Mr. Gill told The Hindu.
Awaiting Key Approvals APTDC is awaiting permissions from the CZMA to move forward with the project. The Forest Department has already greenlit the provision of essential infrastructure such as approach roads, toilets, and changing rooms. “We have applied for permission from CZMA, and once obtained, we will proceed swiftly. Our goal is to make the ship operational as a tourist attraction within the next two months,” said A.P. Tourism Special Chief Secretary Ajay Jain.
In addition to infrastructure, safety protocols and visitor management plans will also be put in place. The authorities are keen to ensure that the development aligns with environmental norms and enhances the tourism appeal of the region without ecological disruptions.
Economic and Tourism Potential The MV Maa’s transformation into a tourist attraction is expected to provide a significant boost to Visakhapatnam’s tourism industry. The ship’s unique positioning offers potential as a picturesque spot, likely to attract local visitors as well as tourists from across India and abroad. Tourism officials anticipate that the project could create direct and indirect employment opportunities, contributing to the local economy.
The proposed resort may feature guided tours, dining options, and recreational activities. If developed effectively, the ship could become an iconic part of Visakhapatnam’s coastal attractions, alongside established sites like Kailasagiri, the Submarine Museum, and the Vizag Beaches.
Challenges and the Road Ahead While the project presents exciting opportunities, several challenges remain. The primary hurdle is obtaining the remaining permissions. Additionally, maintaining the structural integrity of the ship and ensuring safety measures meet regulatory standards will require careful planning.
Environmentalists have also raised concerns over potential ecological impacts. While Mr. Gill maintains that the project will not violate CRZ norms, continued scrutiny from regulatory authorities is expected. Engaging with environmental experts and adhering to best practices will be crucial in mitigating any negative impacts.
Conclusion If all goes as planned, the MV Maa could be welcoming tourists by April, offering a blend of maritime history and modern hospitality. The project aligns with Visakhapatnam’s vision of evolving as a key tourist destination in Andhra Pradesh, bolstered by its natural beauty and innovative attractions. As stakeholders await the final nod from the CZMA, the city remains hopeful that the shipwreck-turned-resort will soon breathe new life into its tourism landscape.
