RFQ floated for three Tourism projects under PPP mode at Long, Aves and Smith Islands in A&N Islands

Port Blair, Dec 26: The Andaman & Nicobar Administration has floated Request for Qualification (RFQ) inviting proposals from the potential developers for the Tourism Resort Projects at Long Island (Lalaji Bay), Smith Island and at Aves Island. These projects have been steered by the Island Development Agency (IDA) with the support of NITI Aayog.

There will be substantial boost to the economy of these Islands in following way:

1) About 500 crores rupees will be invested in the Islands through these Public Partnership Projects in the Tourism Sector. Investments will be made primarily by the private developers and the A&N Administration will be providing support infrastructure; .

2) There will be paradigm shift in the profile in the hospitality industry in Andaman & Nicobar Islands. There not being even a single Star rated Hotel/Resort in these Islands, within the year 2018, One five Star Resort has already become operational at Havelock. Further RFQ have been issued for two more Five Star and one Four Star resorts in these Islands and contract for the same will be awarded very soon.

3) Minimum 60 % direct employment generation would be available to local youths only. Further manifold indirect employment opportunities will be opened up by way of Water Sports activities linked with these projects, Tour operators, Taxi Services and other allied services.