Union Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari today said his ministry has planned to develop 78 lighthouses across the country as tourist spots. He was speaking after laying the foundation stone for construction of a passenger jetty at Kanhoji Angre Lighthouse off Mumbai coast. <br/><br/>Mr. Gadkari, however, asserted that every effort would be made to preserve the history and heritage of these structures while developing them as tourist destinations. Mr. Gadkari said development of lighthouses will give employment and new means of livelihood to the locals.<br/><br/>Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, who was also present on the occasion, welcomed the idea of developing lighthouses as tourist attraction. He announced that the year 2017 will be declared as 'Visit Maharashtra Year'. The passenger jetty at Kanhoji Angre will facilitate smooth berthing of passenger boats at the island. <br/><br/>The island is about 23 kms from Gateway of India. Kanhoji Angre Lighthouse, built in 1867, marks the entry point to the Mumbai harbour and acts as prime aid for navigation of ships entering and leaving Mumbai.