Mumbai boat industry stuck on still water

The fifth edition of the Mumbai International Boat Show (MIBS) at MMRDA Grounds was inaugurated by state PWD and tourism minister Chhagan Bhujbal.

Boats in the price bracket of Rs10 lakh to Rs70 crores will be open for viewing to the public, traders and marine enthusiasts till Sunday.

“The most important part of the boat show is to promote a boating culture in India,” said Maneck Daver, chairman, MIBS.

Favourable government policy in support of better boating infrastructure is the primary cause that MIBS pushes through this annual event.

“India has 7,600km of coastline but this is untapped due to lack of infrastructure. We should explore the potential of the boating industry and provide aid in the construction of marinas,” Bhujbal said while addressing the media.

Funnily enough, the boating exhibit has taken place nowhere near the sea, as is the norm with most international boat shows.

“Boating is not just an exclusive activity. In New Zealand and Australia for example, people have boats just like they have cars. In India, there are people who want to buy boats but there are basic concerns such as where to park the boat, refuelling or simply seeking several permissions each time you want to use your boat after sunset because of security issues post 26/11,” Daver added.

“Boating needs to be looked at as a whole. It means fishing, security, transportation, water tourism and other aspects,” said Gautama Dutta, Marine Solutions.