Maharashtra Tourism Assets Face Falling Booking Rates
Pune: Even as Maharashtra continues to attract growing numbers of domestic travellers, state-run tourism accommodation is struggling to keep pace with the broader hospitality market. Fresh information obtained under the Right to Information (RTI) Act shows that occupancy at Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) resorts has declined over the past three years, raising questions about the efficiency of publicly funded tourism infrastructure and its long-term sustainability.
According to the RTI data, the average booking rate across MTDC’s 33 resorts stood at 39 per cent during 2022–23. Instead of improving alongside the post-pandemic revival in tourism, occupancy has slipped to 37 per cent over the subsequent three-year period. The trend contrasts with continued strong demand reported by private hotels and resorts across Maharashtra, indicating that public tourism assets are failing to capture the state’s expanding visitor economy. The figures have intensified calls for a comprehensive review of MTDC’s operational performance. Civic transparency advocates have urged authorities to conduct an independent audit to assess the utilisation of tourism infrastructure developed through public investment and identify reasons behind the declining occupancy.
Urban development experts say the issue extends beyond hotel bookings. State-run tourism facilities are designed to stimulate regional economies, improve access to emerging destinations and support local livelihoods through increased visitor spending. When such infrastructure remains underutilised, the economic returns on public investment diminish, affecting employment opportunities, local businesses and destination development. Industry analysts suggest that changing traveller expectations may be contributing to the decline. Modern tourists increasingly prioritise digital booking convenience, upgraded amenities, sustainability practices and experience-driven travel. Private hospitality operators have responded rapidly to these shifts, while many government-operated properties may require infrastructure upgrades, improved maintenance and stronger destination marketing to remain competitive. The occupancy trend also highlights the importance of operational reforms as Maharashtra continues positioning tourism as a driver of economic growth. Experts believe that better asset management, technology-enabled reservation systems, customer-focused services and regular maintenance could significantly improve the performance of public tourism facilities while enhancing visitor confidence.
The RTI findings have also renewed discussions around accountability in managing public infrastructure. Stakeholders argue that periodic performance assessments, transparent financial reporting and measurable service standards are essential to ensure taxpayer-funded tourism assets deliver intended economic and social benefits. As Maharashtra expands investments in tourism infrastructure, improving the efficiency of existing facilities may prove as important as developing new ones. Strengthening management practices, embracing sustainable operations and aligning public hospitality services with evolving traveller expectations could help maximise public investment while supporting inclusive regional development and resilient local economies.
