Malvan to get trained local tourist guides

Snorkelling and scuba diving in the coral reefs of Malvan is likely to get safe, eco-friendly and less expensive in the near future.

Starting next month, the state forest department plans to train and certify around 500 locals as tourist guides, who will also double up as lifeguards in emergency situations.

A senior forest official said that the idea is to curb illegal practices employed by unlicenced guides who exploit tourists by charging exorbitant sums, are ignorant about the damage to the coral reef ecology caused by bad tourism practices, and may or may not possess life-saving skills.

“Malvan hosted about 10 lakh tourists last year. With certified and trained guides —essentially local residents who know the area well — our hope is that tourism will become sustainable and safe,” the official said, adding, “Damaging coral reefs or even taking them away is an offence under the Wildlife (Protection) Act.

However, people do it because either there is poor regulation or lack of awareness. With trained guides, this situation is likely to change.”

Presently, the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) and private agencies have their guides and instructors in the area, but a vast number of tourists depend on uncertified guides and instructors.

The guides will also educate tourists about the rich ecology, best snorkelling and diving practices which can prevent an adverse impact on coral reefs. Implemented under the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)-backed project, ‘Mainstreaming Coastal and Marine Biodiversity Conservation into Production Sectors in the Sindhudurg Coast, Maharashtra’ the guides training program seeks to put into practical use the concept of community policing of local ecology.