Aurangabad: The state budget hardly mentions funds for the development of tourism in Aurangabad, which is considered the tourism capital of Maharashtra.
Aurangabad is famous for the two World Heritage Sites, the Ajanta and Ellora Caves. Tourist attractions of the centuries-old watermills in Panchakki, historical gates, Bibi-ka-Maqbara and Daulatabad Fort make it a popular attraction for tourists from all over the world.
The tourism and hospitality industry, which suffered defeat during the lockdown, hoped for an increase in the state budget. In Aurangabad about 10,000 people live directly and indirectly from tourism, which makes it one of the largest employers here.
Sunit Kothari, chairman of the Aurangabad Tourism Development Foundation, said that neither the Union nor the state government has provided funding for the tourism sector in Aurangabad.
Amol Basole, president of the Ellora Leaders Welfare Association, told TOI, “The unfortunate thing for us is that despite the potential, we do not have strong leadership. This is the main reason we are ignored every time, ”he said.
He said countless tourists, both domestic and foreign, cite the bad roads as a reason for skipping visits to Ajanta Caves.
Authorities, including those of the administration, refused to comment on the issue. Shiv Sena’s officials cited the financial crisis the treasury is going through due to the lockdown as the main reason for not allocating funds.
Sena MLC Ambadas Danve said, “During the pandemic, the priority is to save people’s lives by effectively fighting the disease on all fronts. Tourism is a priority sector and we are committed to developing and promoting it. ”
Against the allegation, Aurangabad MP Imtiaz Jaleel said: “Lonar Llake, Panchgani and other places have been mentioned in the state budget, but MVA has committed injustice by ignoring Maharashtra’s tourist capital.”

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