Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat

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Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED

    PROJECT INFORMATION MEMORANDUM

Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of
  Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at Kevadia,
           Narmada, Gujarat

              May 2019
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                 PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

                                TABLE OF CONTENTS

CHAPTER 1.0       INTRODUCTION                                                        2

    1.1   Introduction                                                                2

CHAPTER 2.0       LOCATION & SITE ANALYSIS                                            4

    2.1   An Overview of Statue of Unity, Kevadiya                                    4

    2.2   SWOT Analysis of Narmada as Tourist Destination                           13

    2.3   Opportunities for Tourism Development in / nearby Statue of Unity, Narmada 14

    2.4   Rationale of O&M for Shreshtha Bharat Bhawan                              15

    2.5   Site Location and Description                                             16

    2.6   SWOT Analysis                                                             17

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                             Page | 1
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                          PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

                                                                       INTRODUCTION

1.1    Introduction
       Gujarat is the 6th largest State in India, located in the western part of India with a
       coastline of 1600 km (longest in India). It is one of the most popular tourist regions in
       the country, and was visited by 44.8 million domestic and international tourists in 2016-
       17. Gujarat offers scenic beauty from Great Rann of Kutch to the hills of Saputara.
       Gujarat is one and the only place to view pure Asiatic lions in the world. Gujarat is also
       the birthplace of Mahatma Gandhi and Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, iconic figures of
       India’s Independence movement. Amitabh Bachchan is the brand ambassador of
       Gujarat Tourism since 2010. The “Khushboo Gujarat Ki” campaign by celebrity
       Amitabh Bachchan has increased tourism in Gujarat tremendously.1

       Tourism in Gujarat has a wide scope for tourists, as it includes wide range of forts and
       museums, wild life sanctuaries, temples and mosques and other places of interest. It
       offers a traveler’s paradise by offering a wide spectrum of tourism sectors such as
       spiritual tourism, business tourism, nature tourism, heritage tourism, medical, health,
       cultural, adventure, and event, urban or rural and recreational tourism. The State
       Government’s “Khushboo Gujarat ki” campaign has helped to increase the business.
       Thus an increased occupancy is estimated by the hotel industry.

       The Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (the “Authority” or “SSNNL”) is a 100
       (one hundred) percent subsidiary of Government of Gujarat. SSNNL was responsible
       for implementing the Sardar Sarovar Project, one of the largest water resources project
       of India covering four major states - Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and
       Rajasthan.

       The Sardar Sarovar Project is a lifeline of Gujarat and hence it is the cherished desire
       of Government and people of Gujarat to erect a monument at this sacred spot in
       memory of one of Independent India’s tallest leaders Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel.
       Government of Gujarat, has created a special purpose vehicle i.e. Sardar Vallabhbhai
       Patel Rastriya Ekta Trust (SVPRET) for implementing the Project. The Statue of Unity
       Project, includes the iconic 182 meter tall Statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, a
       museum and other ancillary facilities on Sadhu Hill, 3 Kms downstream of the Sardar
       Sarovar Dam.

       Kevadia, with the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the Statue of Unity is gradually becoming
       a global tourist hub. Looking at the increasing tourist footfalls, along with a plethora of
       other attractions being developed for the tourists, it is intended to provide tourists with
       a host of stay options near the Statue of Unity. As part of this endeavour, the Authority
       has decided to undertake selection of an Agency, a reputed hotel operator, for
       Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan on Operation and
       Maintenance (O&M) basis, and has, therefore, decided to carry out the bidding process

1http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/taai-award-for-gujarat-

tourism/article2735467.ece

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                     Page | 2
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                     PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       for selection of the Bidder to whom the work may be awarded.

       A growing demand for tourists in region due to recent developments, has added to the
       demand for rooms in the area. Limited supply of quality hotels and ever increasing
       tourism in the region, clear title of land / developed infrastructure makes this site
       feasible for development as envisaged.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                Page | 3
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                          PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

                                                LOCATION & SITE ANALYSIS

2.1    An Overview of Statue of Unity, Kevadiya
2.1.1 Introduction

       The Statue of Unity, the world’s tallest statue, built to honour the memory of iconic
       leader and architect of United India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, sees a colossal footfallof
       tourists every single day. Located in Gujarat’s Narmada district, the world’s tallest
       statue, is 3.5 km away from Kevadiya town and about 200 km from Ahmedabad.

       The picturesque surroundings of the Saputara and Vindhyachal hills along with the
       mighty river Narmada provide the perfect view to the statue, which is built on an island.
       Among the prime attractions on the site is a viewer’s gallery inside the statue located
       at the height of 135 meters with a capacity to accommodate 200 persons at a time.
       High speed lifts installed are capable of taking 5000 people per day to the viewing
       gallery, which offers a panoramic glimpse of the surrounding areas.

       Besides the Statue itself, there are several other tourist attractions around including
       the valley of flowers, natural beauty of the Saputara and Vindhyachal hill ranges
       besides the Sardar Sarovar Dam on the mighty Narmada river.

       The State Government recently opened a new luxurious nature retreat, Tent City
       Narmada, just 10 minutes away from the monument. Set up opposite the idyllic
       Panchmuli lake and Dyke 4 (2 tent cities), the resort is surrounded by meadows, water
       cascades, thick forest areas and abundant wildlife.

       A major attraction for the tourists is the option of going to spot crocodiles at the Sardar
       Sarovar dam besides taking short treks to explore ecotourism sites. The statue
       complex has a separate selfie point which gets visitors a good view of the statue and
       its pristine surroundings. Another attraction is the laser, light and sound show based
       on the unification of India during the post independence period which is conducted in
       the complex.

       Plans are also afoot to develop several water sports like river rafting and boating, para
       gliding and forest treks in a phased manner for adventure seekers near the Statue of
       Unity.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                     Page | 4
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                       PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

Figure 2-1: Location Map of Statue of Unity Area, Kevadiya

                                                                              Kevadiya

2.1.2 Connectivity

       Statue of Unity is well connected to major cities of Gujarat like Ahmedabad, Vadodara,
       Bharuch etc through roads, rail and air. It is about 100 km from Vadodara, 200 km from
       Ahmedabad and about 420 km from Mumbai. The nearest town to Statue of Unity is
       Kevadiya which is about 3.5 km away and the nearest city is Rajpipla which is 25 km
       away.

       Road – Statue of Unity is well connected by road with Vadodara and Ahmedabad
       towards north, Rajpipla and Bharuch towards west, Surat and Mumbai towards south
       through National highway 953 and State highway 5. Statue of Unity can also be
       reached by State Highway 11 and State highway 63.

       Rail – Vadodara railway station is the nearest rail head 90 km to the Sardar Patel
       Statue. Bharuch Railway Station is 91 km and Ahmedabad Railway Station is around
       197 km.

       Air – The nearest airport from Statue of Unity is in Vadodara and the nearest
       international airport is in Ahmedabad.

2.1.3 Demography

       According to Census 2011 Narmada district has a population of 590,379 roughly equal

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                 Page | 5
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                            PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       to the nation of Soloman Islands or the US State of Wyoming. This gives it a ranking
       of 528th in India (out of a total of 640). The district has a population density of 214
       inhabitants per square km. Its population growth rate over the decade 2001-11 was
       14.77%. Narmada has a sex ratio of 960 females for every 1000 males and a literacy
       rate of 73.29%.

2.1.4 Economy
2.1.4.1 At District Level

       The economy of Narmada district is solely based on agriculture. Most of the population
       in the district are engaged in agriculture in order to earn their livelihood. Production of
       banana and cotton are the key horticulture crops in the district. An investment of INR
       600 Cr was observed in the district between 1988-07. Industries such as textiles,
       sugar, and chemicals observed major investments and substantial growth during the
       past two decades.

       Though the district is scantily industrialized yet it has some industries of textiles, sugar,
       chemicals, agro industries etc. There are also some small scale industries of paper,
       wood products and food products in the district which helps in its economy to a great
       extent.

       In the year 2006, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj declared Narmada one of the country’s
       250 most backward districts and currently receiving funds from the Backward Regions
       Grant Fund Programme (BRGF).

       Economy Drivers

       Agriculture provides the maximum opportunity to generate sustainable livelihood and
       employment for the villagers. Industry sectors such as textiles, food products, wood
       and rubber products and repair and servicing are the supporting pillars of the district
       economy. The district owns some of the major tourist destinations such as
       Shoolpaneshwar, Wildlife Sanctuary and Temple and Rajwant Palace which accounts
       for a healthy influx of tourists.

       Narmada houses herbal botanical gardens consisting of almost 70 species of herbal
       plants, which are used for the ayurvedic and natural therapy of treatment, and also
       helps in increasing medical value travel in the district.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                       Page | 6
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                      PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

2.1.5 Tourist Inflow to Statue of Unity
       The inflow of tourist in Statue of Unity from 2nd Nov 2018 to 26th Jan 2019.

       Government sees the potential of extending it to 15000 persons per day (5.0 million
       annually).

2.1.6 Tourism Resources

       Narmada district has abundant tourism assets which are currently either untapped or
       under-tapped. The key features of the tourism assets of this region are-

          Presence of three major water reservoirs – Sardar Sarovar, Ukai Dam and Karjan
           Dam.

          Abundant biodiversity and rich forests assets

          Attractive tribal culture – art and cuisines

          The district is richly endowed with herbs of medicinal value. The Forest
           Department has developed multiple Aushadhiya & Botanical Gardens in the area.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                  Page | 7
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                        PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       The map of the tourist attractions in the district is as below-

       Brief details of the Tourist attractions as mentioned in the map are as below-

       1.   Rajpipla

            District Headquarters & Municipality,
            which was the capital of the former
            kingdom of Rajpipla. The tourism
            assets include- Rajwant palace, Vadia
            palace, and Statue of Maharaja
            Vijaysinhji, Harsiddhi Mataji Temple,
            Victoria Gate and Red Tower location
            in picturesque Forest Background.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                    Page | 8
Shrestha Bharat BhawanatKevadia, SARDAR SAROVAR NARMADA NIGAM LIMITED Narmada, Gujarat
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at     PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       2.   Dediapada

            Small village home to the tribal
            communities like Vasava and Tadvi.
            Local tours to Panjari Ghat, Rukhal,
            Kunbar are the major attractions.

       3.   Zarwani

            A seasonal waterfall located close to
            the Sardar Sarovar dam, Zarwani is a
            popular tourist locations. It is located in
            the Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary. There
            are no many tourist amenities located
            in the area, and the Falls is a short trek
            from the parking site. It can be
            accessed through the forest check
            post.

       4.   Shoolpaneshwar Sanctuary

            The sanctuary was initially established
            for the protection of the sloth bear in
            1982. The forest is one of the best and
            thickest in the state, and includes a
            major watershed feeding two major
            reservoirs with the Rajpipla hills as
            backdrop. It has good biodiversity. The
            local population heavily depends on
            the forest produce, particularly
            Bamboo         for     socio-economic
            sustenance.

       5.   Malsamot

            With a hill station like environment,
            Malsamot is located close to the Sagai
            Campsite.The site has 6 roomed
            guesthouse and decent road and
            electricity connectivity. Small village
            treks may be undertaken from this
            site.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                 Page | 9
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at      PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       6.   The Statue of Unity

            The under-construction Statue of
            Unity, having a project cost of Rs.
            2898 cr., is a project having an
            iconic 182 meter tall landmark
            statue dedicated to Sardar
            Vallabhbhai Patel. Post completion
            in it will be the world's tallest statue.
            Located in Sadhubet near the Dam
            the statue will have other features
            like Tribal Museum & AV Gallery, Laser
            Light       Show,     Interpretation      Centre,
            Research centre, Hotel (~128 keys),
            Viewing Gallery, Ferry services etc.

            Main components of the project are as
            under:

            1. 182 meter high World Tallest Statue
               called Statue of Unit
            2. Viewing Gallery at 135 m level
            3. Exhibition Hall and Gallery at Statue
               base with memorial garden at it roof
            4. Memorial and Visiting Centre (M & VC)
            5. Main Bridge (300 m) connecting M&VC
               and Sadhu Island
            6. Shrestha         Bharat        Bhavan
               (Administrative complex / management
               hub cum hotel)
            7. Road connecting Shrestha              Bharat
               Bhavan and M&VC

       7.   Devmogra

            Highly revered by the locals,
            Devmogra Mata is the goddess of
            Satpuda mountain people. There is an
            annual festival at the temple from
            February to March where an estimated
            5,00,000 to 7,00,000 people attend.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                 Page | 10
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at      PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       8.   Sagai

            This campsite is situated at the foot of
            the hills Malsamot, is amidst, teak
            forests and breath-taking views. The
            existing infrastructure include- 6
            Cottages with attached bath & toilet
            facilities, 5 Tented Accommodations
            with separate bath & toilet facilities, 1
            dormitory (10 pax), Kitchen & Dining
            places. The EDC serves fodd to the
            visitors. There is an interpretation
            center and campfire and machaans.
            The campsite also has a nature trail.

       9.   Panjrighat

            It is a picnic destination for nearby
            schools. There is a seasonal waterfall
            and interesting rock formations in the
            site. Located within the forest, it an
            interesting trek from nearby sites like
            Dediapada.

       10. Kunbar

            The forest department has developed
            a site for camping close to the
            Botanical Garden. The site is close to
            a waterbody and has a well-developed
            nursery and some office spaces in the
            campus. The road connectivity is
            good.

       11. Ninai

            Ninai is a seasonal waterfall and a
            popular attraction in the area. The
            waterfall has basic infrastructure
            developed by the forest department
            like- Van kutir, RCC steps to waterfall,
            rain shelter near waterfall, viewing
            gallery, seating etc.

            The waterfall is usually trekked from
            Sagai Campsite. Not much of
            refreshment facilities are available
            onsite for tourists.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                 Page | 11
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at      PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       12. Rukhal

           Located in a reserve forest, the Forest
           Department has developed some sites
           for camping facilities. The site is good
           for wildlife and bid siting. The forest
           cover is dense and the proposed
           campsite is located adjacent to the
           village. It has dirt road access from the
           main road. The waterbody makes the
           site popular with birds.

       13. Junaraj

           Located in the Shoolpaneshwar
           Sanctuary Area, Junaraj is a well-
           developed camping site with great
           water frontage on the Karjan Dam.
           The current infrastructure include 6
           Cottages and tent plinths. The facilities
           are managed by the EDC. The footfall
           is not much in the site. The road
           access is very poor and through the
           gated area of the forest.

       14. Ukai Dam

           The Ukai Dam, constructed across the
           Tapi River, is the second largest
           reservoir in Gujarat after the Sardar
           Sarovar. The site is popular with
           tourists, especially those from South
           Gujarat.

       15. Vishalkhadi

           Vishalkhadi is another camping site
           developed and maintained by the
           Forest Department on the Karjan
           Dam. The site has 6 Roomed
           Guesthouse, Camps, Bamboo Hut,
           Dormitory.

           Boating in the nearby Karjan river are
           popular tourist activities. The
           campsite is run by the EDC and the
           last mile access is good for the site.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                 Page | 12
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                         PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       16. Karjan Dam

            Located on the Karjan river, the
            reservoir has an area of 36.77 Km2
            at full reservoir level. The area is very
            scenic, however underexplored in
            terms of tourism development.

            The Forest Department has two
            campsites of Junaraj and Vishalkhadi
            overlooking the Karjan Dam.

       17. Sardar Sarovar Dam

            It is the largest dam on River
            Narmada and one of the largest in the
            world. The Kevadia colony is located
            at the foot of the dam, where the
            employees of the dam live. Tourist
            amenities have also been developed
            in this location.

            The dam site is a popular monsoon
            attraction and Gujarat Tourism
            organizes the Monsoon Festival
            every year in this place.

2.2    SWOT Analysis of Narmada as Tourist Destination

       Strengths
          There are many scenic unexplored locations.
          As the area has year long water availability, the tourist season availabe is long
           around 8-9 months.
          The district and the place is well connected and in close proximity to urban centres
           like Ahmedabad, Surat, Vadodara and Bharuch.
       Weaknesses
          Low retention capacity – day visitors primarily.
          Exiting rates of room are very high or very low.
          Institutional structure for maintenance / upkeep is yet to be established.
          Limited local trained manpower resources.
          Limited basic amenities especially sanitation.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                    Page | 13
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                       PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       Opportunities
          The tourism is local residents driven.
          Proposal of developing institutional framework and local capacities.
          The room rates can be hiked with better facilities and management.
          There is a potential to develop tourist circuits and better tourist activities /
           amenities.
          Potential to upgrade existing forest accommodations and interpretation facilities.
       Threats
          Sensitive forect / sanctuary area in vicinity.
          There could be tourist safety concerns due to the water frontage that could pose a
           threat to the development.
          Insensitive tourism development can ruin the location aesthetics irreversibly and
           perpetuate local dissatisfaction.

2.3    Opportunities for Tourism Development in and nearby Statue of Unity,
       Narmada.
       a. Cinematic Tourism – Based on the discussions with the royal family of Rajpipla,
          it was discovered that the Palace is a popular shooting destination, more so for
          regional films. The destinations may be formally promoted in mainstream with
          proper infrastructure and timely permissions. Promotion materials in the form of
          brochures, short video clippings, cataloguing etc. can be undertaken for the
          publicity of the destinations.
       b. Ecotourism development at Campsites - The Forest Department has developed
          multiple campsites in the region. However they neither attract a lot of tourists nor
          are particularly well maintained. The scenic location of these sites, present a great
          opportunity for development in PPP. Through sensitive contract conditions this will
          ensure better tourist experience and higher engagement of the locals. A 2-3 day
          circuit may be developed in the region, connecting the various campsites for
          diverse experience to the tourists. Along the Rann Utsav model, the campsites may
          be developed on a temporary basis based on the tourist seasons. There is also a
          great possibility for the development of manufacturing local souvenirs through the
          SHGs
       c. Water-sports on the Dam Sites - The presence of their major water bodies
          (Karjan Dam, Sardar Sarovar and Ukai Dam) is one the biggest USP of the site.
          Water sports development in at least one of the sites shall greatly open the area to
          tourism. Development of an Institute in the lines of ABIMAS (Atal Bihari Vajpayee
          Institute of Mountaineering and Allied Sports) shall catalyse the development of
          water and adventure sports in the entire Western Region.
       d. Development of Wellness Tourism - Narmada is known for its richness of
          medicinal herbs. The Forest Department has developed many Medicinal Herbal

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                 Page | 14
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                          PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

            Gardens in the area. This can be upgraded to include components of Wellness
            Tourism.
       e. Statue of Unity – It is a major upcoming development in the region. This mega
          project will open up the area in a big way. It is a great opportunity to develop
          ancillary attractions in the region, to engage the tourists for a longer duration. The
          development consist of tourist attractions like tribal museum, viewing gallery,
          convention centre, light and sound show, research centre, ferry services etc. A
          valley of flowers is also being developed in the region which is poised to be a major
          attraction.
       f.   Design, development and marketing of souvenirs - During the review meeting
            chaired by Hon’ble Union Minister Ms. Smruti Zubin Irani, the potential of Banana
            Fibre made Clothes and Cotton Clothes was discussed. The model of Pochampalli
            may be suitably replicated in Narmada. Central Silk Board may be approached for
            Seri-culture Pilot Project. The possibilities of Bamboo products was also discussed.
            Such products can be interesting souvenirs are marketed by linking it to the Statue
            of Unity.
       g. Skilling - During the visits and the discussions with the officials it was understood
          that this is a major requirement in the area. In the review meeting it was
          recommended that Skill Mapping may be undertaken to clearly identify the gaps.
          The Statue of Unity is to be inaugurated in October 2017. It is essential to prepare
          guides and other ancillary human resources before the same. It was discussed that
          ~200 persons from the district may be trained at the State Institute of Hotel
          Management, Siddhpur for a course duration of 4 months in guide and other
          hospitality related training programs. Short term training programs for the EDC
          members may also be developed in association with the Forest Department.
       h. Infrastructure Upgradation - Narmada is one of the tribal and backward districts
          of the State. Infrastructure upgradation in the form of proper road connectivity to
          the tourist sites, access to electricity, mobile network connectivity shall be essential
          for the tourism development. During the site visit, high dependence on solar panels
          was observed in the villages. The same may be develop in a more scientific
          manner. An airstrip development in Rajpipla shall greatly enhance the connectivity
          to other parts of the State.
2.4    Rationale of O&M for Shreshtha Bharat Bhawan
       Kevadia, with the Sardar Sarovar Dam and the Statue of Unity is gradually becoming
       a global tourist hub. Looking at the increasing tourist footfalls, along with a plethora of
       other attractions being developed for the tourists, it is intended to provide tourists with
       a host of stay options near the Statue of Unity Sites. Two Tent Cities with a capacity
       of about 240 tents have been developed on a PPP basis near the Statue of Unity. It is
       further intended that the selected property of the State Government be operated on a
       PPP basis. The details are as below:
            1. Shreshta Bharat Bhawan: 52 rooms
       Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited (SSNNL) now intends to appoint an
       established and renowned Hospitality Group as Agency to undertake Operations and

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                    Page | 15
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                         PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

       Management (O & M) of the building as stated above alongwith its marketing. It is also
       estimated that some investments will also be needed to upgrade the property.
2.5    Site Location and Description
2.5.1 Introduction

       Shreshtha Bharat Bhawan is situated 4.9 kms from the Statue of Unity in between
       Statue of Unity and Kevadiya town. The site is located on the left side of the road when
       travelling from Statue of Unity to Kevadiya. The site falls just before the town starts if
       coming from Statue of Unity. The site is a land parcel spread over an area of about
       30,000 sq. m.

       The Site is surrounded by Narmada river
       towards the west, Suryakund water falls
       towards the south, Statue of Unity access
       road towards the east and open land
       parcel towards the north. The site is just
       700 m away from the kevadiya town Post
       Office, just opposite the Model room and
       Information centre (ticketing / reception
       area) and next to public parking.

       The Site coordinates are:
          Latitude 21°52'25.18 "N
          Longitude 73°41'42.98 "E

2.5.2 Site Linkage, Connectivity and Access:
       The Site can be approached by an existing 4 lane divided carriageway road having an
       average width of more than 15 m that connects NH 953 to Statue of Unity. The site
       has a very good connectivity with Kevadiya and Statue of Unity along with other sight
       seeing places. The site lies almost on the main road and has enough parking space.
       The site can be approached by two internal roads connecting the main road and
       leading to Shreshta Bharat Bhawan.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                   Page | 16
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                           PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

2.5.3 Site Topography and Vegetation
       The Site is situated next to Narmada river on the top level of the contoured land with
       good greenery. Topographically the land slopes from the SBB site towards Narmada
       river and towards the road. The site has good greenery and garden around its building.

2.5.4 Proximity to Key Areas

       The proposed Site is
       located with Narmada
       River on the west side,
       open        land        and
       Suryakund Waterfalls on
       the south side, the
       approach road from the
       Main road connecting it
       to Statue of Unity on the
       east side and the
       Kevadiya town on the
       north side. The site is
       around 4.9 kms away
       from the Statue of Unity. The site lies immediately south to the Kevadiya town and in
       close vicinity to Tent city and Circuit house. The site is well connected to different parts
       of Narmada through well defined road road network.

2.5.5 Existing Infrastructure
       Site Access

       The Site is currently accessible by two
       internal roads connecting to main road
       that also connects the Statue of Unity. The
       nearest main road to the site is 100 m east
       of the site.

       Power & Water

       The Site has power and water connection.

       Telecommunication

       Telecommunication and mobile networks are available on site.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                     Page | 17
Upgradation, Operation & Maintenance of Shrestha Bharat Bhawan at                         PIM
 Kevadia, Narmada, Gujarat

2.6    SWOT Analysis

       Strengths
          The site is located vary close (within five km) to already established Statue of Unity
           tourist spot which is witnessing 10,000 tourists per day on an average.
          Basic infrastructure already developed for the site.
          Location of Shreshtha Bharat Bhawan which is next to Narmada river, is a major
           advantage.
          Good connectivity with major parts of Gujarat through well developed roads.
          A PPP format limiting risk.

       Weaknesses
          The site is already built and developed leaving no room for expansion.
          Development in and around the location still on a nascent stage.

       Opportunities
          The Narmada region is famous for its rich biodiversity including forest area,
           Vindhyachal and Saputara hills, Narmada river & dam and a forest area that gives
           an opportunity for good tourism.
          The proposed development can also attract local populace from neighbouring
           towns.
          The government is exploring the tourism possibilities of this area and envisaging
           to tap this vast beauty of Narmada in more possible ways.

       Threats
          The project might become a victim of excessive commercialization and hence
           leading to unsustainable growth of surrounding area.
          Close vicinity to Vadodara poses a threat on overnight tourist traffic, as tourists
           may prefer a day trip to this place rather than overnight stay.

Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited                                                   Page | 18
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