Gujarat top state in attracting foreign tourists: Sanghavi

Sanghavi pointed out that neighbouring Rajasthan was on the seventh spot in attracting international tourists.

Earlier, while tabling the Champaner-Pavagadh Archaeological Park World Heritage Area Management Authority (Repeal) Bill, 2023, Sanghavi said the government has brought in the Bill as the state government has established the “Pavagadh Area Development Authority” headed by the district collector on June 17. Hence, the earlier authority set up in 2006 has become “redundant”, he added.

“Eight villages of Halol taluka of Panchamahal district with a population of 14,000 have been brought under this new authority formed this year. An estimated 51 square kilometres have been covered by this authority,” Sanghavi said, adding that in 2004, UNESCO had declared Champaner-Pavagadh a world heritage site.

Sanghavi said the BJP government in the state has already spent Rs 113 crore on Pavagadh till date.  “Works worth another Rs 102 crore are in progress that includes building new steps on the Pavagadh hill and facilities for pilgrims,” he said.