Maharashtra is set to make history with the creation of India’s first underwater museum and artificial coral reef, repurposing the decommissioned naval tank landing ship INS Guldar into a spectacular subaquatic attraction near Nivati Rocks off the Sindhudurg coast .

• The Indian Navy officially handed over INS Guldar to the Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC) on 21 February 2025 at Karwar, on an “as is where is” basis.
• The ₹46.91 crore project is funded by the Ministry of Tourism and includes ship decontamination, environmental clearances, and vessel scuttling. Completion is expected by late 2025 to early 2026.

• Transform INS Guldar into an underwater museum to preserve naval heritage and educate visitors about its 39 years of service.
• Scuttle the ship to form an artificial coral reef, boosting marine biodiversity and enhancing habitats in a region lacking natural reefs.
• Enhance eco-tourism and local livelihoods through scuba diving, submersible tours, and maritime training. The region aims to rival global dive hubs like Florida’s USS Oriskany reef .

• The ship will undergo thorough cleaning to remove oils, batteries, asbestos, and other hazardous substances, following conservation norms.
• MTDC, in collaboration with maritime and environmental experts, will obtain necessary NOCs from the Ministry of Environment and Coastal Zone authorities.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who virtually inaugurated the project on 11 June 2025, described it as a pioneering blend of cultural preservation and marine conservation .
An MTDC spokesperson added, “This will put Sindhudurg on the global diving map,” emphasising its tourism and conservation potential.

With countries like the United States, Australia, and Thailand having successfully converted naval ships into underwater reefs, India’s initiative marks a significant entry into the growing field of eco-tourism and marine heritage.

• Scuttling at Sindhudurg and reef formation
• Launch of adventure offerings: scuba diving, submersible and submarine tours
• Naval training zone for divers, fostering collaboration between the Navy and MTDC

This transformative project elevates India’s capabilities in sustainable tourism, marine conservation, and heritage preservation—symbolising a unique confluence of national pride, ecological responsibility, and innovative tourism.