In a significant move to reduce its heavy reliance on the coaching industry, the city of Kota in Rajasthan is charting a new economic course. The state government and private stakeholders have joined forces to unlock the tourism potential of the lesser-known Hadauti region, with a special focus on the Chambal river belt.
A Strategic Push for Economic Diversification
The initiative gained crucial momentum following an announcement by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla. He proposed the denotification of certain stretches of the Gharial Sanctuary restrictions along the Chambal river. This step is aimed at facilitating infrastructure development and better leveraging the area's untapped tourism potential. The announcement was made during the inaugural Kota–Hadauti Travel Mart, which saw the participation of nearly 600 tour operators from across India.
Ashok Maheshwari, President of the Hotel Federation of Rajasthan (Kota Division), highlighted the opportunity. He stated that this decision could open the door for regulated river-based tourism, eco-friendly cruises, and heritage circuits, effectively positioning the Chambal as a fresh attraction on Rajasthan's tourism map.
Filling the Void as Coaching Sector Faces Challenges
This tourism push holds added significance as Kota's famed coaching industry navigates turbulent times, marked tragically by student suicides. Surendra Singh Shahpura, patron of the association, noted that the challenges in the coaching sector have unveiled a major opportunity for tourism to bolster the economy of the entire Hadauti region.
"The coaching boom might have overshadowed the tourism potential. But as it rationalises, the opportunities are now becoming visible," Shahpura said. He added that the travel mart successfully opened the eyes of operators to the unique tourism riches the region has to offer.
Infrastructure Development and Environmental Concerns
To support this new vision, critical infrastructure gaps are being addressed. While Kota has good road and rail links, it has lacked an airport. This gap is expected to be bridged within the next couple of years, with work already begun on a proposed airport for which the government has identified 700 acres of land.
Ranvijay Singh, senior Vice President of the Hotel Federation of Rajasthan, revealed, "Besides the airport, around 25 hotels are under construction now. When the riverfront opens for tourism activity, it can match any other premium destination."
However, the plan has raised concerns among environmentalists. They worry that increased commercial activity could pollute the Chambal river, which is a vital source of drinking water for the city. Brijesh Vijayvergaya, convenor of Chambal Sansad in Kota, expressed apprehension, stating, "We are afraid of polluted and drain water flowing into the river, which is the source of water for many people."
The concerted effort marks a pivotal moment for Kota, as it seeks to build a more diversified and resilient economic future by showcasing the natural and cultural heritage of the Hadauti region and the Chambal river.
