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Alibag

Alibag, also known as Alibaug, is a coastal and municipal council in of the region in , , serving as the administrative headquarters of . Located approximately 35 kilometers south of along the , it is a popular weekend getaway renowned for its pristine black-sand beaches, historical forts, and maritime heritage. As of the 2011 census, the town had a of 20,743, with a rate of about 84%; the is estimated at around 30,100 as of 2025. Its economy revolves around , , and burgeoning . The town's history traces back to the 17th century, when it was established as a by Sarkhel , the celebrated admiral of the under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj. In 1713, under a treaty with , several forts including Kolaba were ceded to Angre, who developed Alibag as a strategic port and built structures there around 1720. The area has ancient roots, with nearby sites like and flourishing as trade ports over 2,000 years ago, contributing to its rich cultural and historical tapestry. Today, Alibag's , accessible by foot during low tide, stands as a prominent symbol of this maritime legacy, alongside other attractions like the Kanakeshwar Temple and the serene Revdanda Beach. Geographically, Alibag spans a relatively flat , with the located further inland in the district, and features a with hot summers, moderate monsoons, and mild winters. Its beaches, such as the main Alibag Beach with its wide expanse ideal for leisurely walks, draw visitors for water sports, dolphin spotting, and fresh seafood, while the town's connectivity via ferries from Mumbai's enhances its appeal as an accessible retreat. As a growing hub, Alibag balances its historical significance with modern development, including eco-tourism initiatives and proximity to biodiversity hotspots in the Sahyadri range.

History and Etymology

Historical development

Alibag was established in the late 17th century by Kanhoji Angre, the Sarkhel (admiral) of the Maratha Navy under Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and his successors, as a strategic coastal base to support maritime defense and trade along the Konkan coast. Appointed admiral in 1698 by Chhatrapati Rajaram, Kanhoji ruled until his death in 1729, transforming Alibag into a vital hub for the Maratha Empire's naval fleet, which conducted operations against Portuguese and British vessels to secure regional sovereignty and protect merchant shipping. In 1714, under a treaty with Peshwa Balaji Vishwanath, forts including Kolaba were ceded to Angre, who subsequently developed Alibag as a strategic port, building structures such as Hirakot around 1720. During this period, the Angre family's control over Alibag and nearby fortifications bolstered the empire's dominance in the Arabian Sea, repelling multiple European incursions and establishing a network of coastal strongholds. Following Kanhoji's , his successors maintained Angre influence in Alibag amid internal Maratha conflicts and external pressures, but power gradually eroded after the Third Anglo-Maratha War concluded in 1818, when territories along the were annexed by the East India Company and incorporated into the . The Angre state lapsed to in 1840 following the of the last chief, Kanhoji II, without heirs, on March 21, 1839, leading to administrative reorganization and Alibag's emergence as a key port for trade and governance in the region. Under colonial rule, Alibag saw infrastructural developments, including the establishment of the in 1869 with the town as its headquarters, facilitating revenue collection, judicial functions, and maritime activities. Post-independence, Alibag retained its role as the administrative center of the former Kolaba , which was officially renamed Raigad in 1981 to honor the historic Maratha capital of , marking a period of modernization and while preserving its coastal heritage. This transition underscored Alibag's evolution from a Maratha naval to a contemporary hub, integrating traditional significance with initiatives.

Name origin

The name Alibag derives from the Marathi term "Ali cha Bagh," meaning "garden of Ali," referring to a wealthy merchant named Ali who owned extensive coconut groves and orchards in the region during the 17th century. Local legends attribute the area's lush vegetation to Ali's contributions, including the digging of wells that supported agriculture in this coastal zone. This etymology highlights the town's early agrarian character, with "bagh" signifying a garden or orchard, while its position on the Konkan coast underscores a complementary maritime heritage tied to trade and navigation. Historical variations of the name include "Alichi Bagh" in early usage and "Alibagh" in British colonial records from the 18th and 19th centuries, reflecting phonetic adaptations by administrators. In , the name evokes the verdant landscapes that attracted settlers under Maratha admiral , who established the settlement in the late 17th century as a . These stories preserve the cultural memory of Alibag as a blend of fertile lands and strategic seaside location, symbolizing prosperity and resilience in local narratives.

Geography and Climate

Physical geography

Alibag is a coastal town situated in the of , , approximately 38 km south of across the , with geographic coordinates of 18°38′N 72°52′E. This positioning places it along the coast, where the forms the western boundary, contributing to its role as a prominent seaside locale. The town's proximity to major urban centers underscores its accessibility, yet it retains a distinct coastal character defined by marine influences. The of Alibag consists of a flat characterized by low elevation, averaging around 12 meters above , featuring expansive sandy beaches that extend along the shoreline. This plain is backed by the rugged slopes of the to the east, creating a transitional from to elevated hilly terrain within a short . The area covers approximately 1.8 km², encompassing this low-lying coastal zone suitable for beachfront development and light infrastructure. Such renders the area vulnerable to sea-level variations, potentially exacerbating risks from . Key natural features include the nearby Creek, which flows into the and supports diverse mangrove ecosystems typical of the Raigad coastal region. These mangroves, with up to 11 species recorded in the area, form protective barriers along estuarine zones and contribute to the of the surrounding wetlands. The landscape also incorporates smaller water bodies and streams, such as those near Sasawane village, which integrate with the coastal plain's drainage patterns. The soils predominantly comprise coastal and saline types, often with sandy characteristics that support local , particularly rice cultivation in lowland areas. Vegetation in the vicinity features tropical dry forests on the inland slopes toward the , dominated by adapted to the region's seasonal rainfall and coastal proximity. These forests include a mix of deciduous trees and shrubs, providing ecological connectivity between the coastal plain and higher elevations, while patches along creeks enhance diversity for and terrestrial .

Climate

Alibag experiences a classified as under the Köppen system, characterized by high rainfall during the summer season and a relatively short dry period. The region receives an average annual rainfall of approximately 2,500–3,000 mm, with the majority—over 80%—occurring between and due to the southwest . Temperatures in Alibag are warm throughout the year, with summers from to May featuring highs of 25–35°C and lows around 24–25°C, accompanied by rising levels that often exceed 80%. Winters, spanning November to February, are milder with daytime highs of 18–28°C and cooler nights dipping to 18–20°C, while remains elevated at 70–90% year-round, contributing to a muggy atmosphere. The season brings intense rainfall that poses risks of flooding in low-lying coastal areas, while the post- period from to November offers pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and reduced , making it ideal for . These patterns can exacerbate the impacts of cyclones by intensifying moisture and wind conditions during the season. Recent climate data indicate an increasing trend in annual mean temperatures for , with an observed rise of about 0.69°C from 2001 to 2024 (approximately 3°C per 100 years), attributable to broader effects, though localized variations in Alibag remain consistent with historical norms.

Cyclones

Alibag, located on the coast in Maharashtra's , faces heightened vulnerability to tropical cyclones due to its position in the North Indian Ocean basin, particularly the region where storms can intensify rapidly and bring storm surges, heavy rainfall, and high winds to low-lying coastal areas. Although the produces fewer cyclones than the , has led to more frequent and intense events in recent years, exacerbating risks for communities reliant on and agriculture. Notable cyclone events have directly impacted Alibag, including the 2020 Severe Cyclonic Storm Nisarga, which made near the town on June 3 with sustained winds of 110-120 km/h, causing widespread flooding from storm surges of 1.5-2.5 meters and heavy rainfall exceeding 200 mm in parts of . In 2021, Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm Tauktae approached closely on May 17, peaking at winds of 185 km/h before in , but its proximity led to evacuations of over 10,000 people in , including Alibag, amid gusts up to 130 km/h, torrential rains, and rough seas that damaged boats and coastal structures. More recently, in 2023, Biparjoy's peripheral effects brushed Maharashtra's coast on June 15, bringing gusty winds and isolated heavy showers to Alibag without direct , though it prompted alerts and minor disruptions in the region. In October 2025, Severe Cyclonic Storm formed over the , bringing gusty winds of 45-65 km/h, heavy showers, and rough seas to the coast including on October 3-7, leading to alerts but no major damage. These events have resulted in significant , such as the partial destruction of over 700 houses in Alibag taluka during Tauktae and uprooting of trees and power lines during Nisarga, alongside agricultural losses from flooded farmlands and affecting crops like rice and mangoes in Raigad. networks faced severe disruptions, including blockages and service suspensions between Alibag and , stranding and . In response, the early systems post-2021, integrating IMD forecasts with alerts via and apps, which facilitated timely evacuations and reduced casualties to near zero in subsequent events. Mitigation efforts in Alibag emphasize natural barriers like forests, which absorbed wave energy during Nisarga and Tauktae, protecting inland areas from surges, as highlighted in post-event assessments. Following the 2020 storms, stricter coastal regulation zones (CRZ) were enforced in Raigad, prohibiting construction in high-risk buffer areas and promoting to bolster resilience against future cyclones.

Demographics and Society

Population statistics

According to the , the population of Alibag Municipal Council was 20,743, marking an increase from 19,496 in 2001 and reflecting a decadal growth rate of approximately 6.4%. The stood at 11,460 inhabitants per square kilometer, based on the municipal area's extent of 1.81 square kilometers. In terms of composition, males numbered 10,646 and females 10,097, yielding a of 948 females per 1,000 males. The child population aged 0-6 years totaled 1,833, comprising about 8.8% of the overall population, with 975 boys and 858 girls. Alibag is classified as an urban entity within the predominantly rural , where the surrounding taluka includes significant rural extensions alongside urban centers like Alibag itself. The 2021 Census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the next census now scheduled to begin house listing in October 2026 and conclude in 2027, leaving no official update since 2011; however, estimates project the municipal population at around 30,100 by 2025, driven by tourism-related migration and urban development. This growth underscores Alibag's evolving role as a coastal destination, with literacy rates reaching 92.18% in 2011, supporting demographic stability.

Religion and languages

Alibag's religious landscape is characterized by a Hindu majority, comprising 82.55% of the population as per the , with Muslims accounting for 11.06% and smaller communities including (0.44%), Buddhists (3.19%), Jains (2.42%), (0.11%), and others (0.23%) making up the rest. Religious life revolves around festivals such as , widely celebrated with processions and community immersions, and , observed by the Muslim population through prayers and communal feasts. Marathi serves as the and is the mother tongue of approximately 74% of Alibag's residents, reflecting the region's deep ties to Maharashtra's linguistic heritage. is spoken by about 17% of the population, often as a , while dialects of are prevalent among coastal communities, particularly in informal and traditional settings. English holds significance in educational institutions and the tourism sector, facilitating interactions with visitors from urban centers like . The of Alibag is shaped by the influence of Maratha heritage, evident in local traditions and historical fortifications that underscore a legacy of regional and naval prowess. dynamics play a key role in coastal communities, where groups like the Koli, traditionally associated with livelihoods, maintain distinct occupational and social networks amid broader Hindu societal norms. Cultural practices in Alibag highlight the influence through cuisine centered on fresh seafood, such as bombil fry () and sol (coconut-based curry), prepared with local spices and enjoyed in community settings. Festivals unique to the region, including Narali —a celebration for fishermen involving offerings to the sea—blend religious rituals with agrarian and maritime traditions.

Notable residents

Kanhoji Angre (1669–1729), the renowned Maratha admiral and naval chief under Maharaj, is credited with founding Alibag in the 17th century as a strategic coastal base for the , significantly contributing to the region's maritime defense and expansion along the coast. His leadership established Alibag as a key port town, emphasizing naval prowess that protected trade routes from European colonial forces. Dattatraya Kashinath Kunte, known as Nanasaheb Kunte (1908–1991), was a prominent historian, politician, and editor born in Alibag, who served as a member of the and contributed to cultural preservation through his work on Maratha history and historical texts. His scholarly efforts highlighted the political and social impacts of the region, including Alibag's role in Maharashtra's heritage. Prabhakar Kashinath Kunte (1922–2012), also born in Alibag, was a dedicated freedom fighter who participated in the of , enduring imprisonment by British authorities, and later became a leader and managing trustee of the Raigad Military School, advancing education and labor rights in the area. His political activism underscored Alibag's contributions to India's independence struggle. Sanjay Raut (born 1961), a contemporary politician and member from born in Alibag, has been influential in politics, focusing on regional development and coastal issues, thereby maintaining the town's political legacy. Umesh Kulkarni (born 1942), a former Indian cricketer born in Alibag, represented in four Test matches as a left-arm fast-medium bowler between 1967 and 1968, playing a role in elevating the sporting profile of the region through his domestic career with Bombay.

Tourist Attractions

Historical sites

Alibag's historical landscape is dominated by coastal forts that reflect the region's strategic maritime importance during the Maratha and colonial eras. , located approximately 1-2 kilometers offshore from Alibag beach, is a prominent 17th-century structure initiated by around 1680 as part of his efforts to fortify the coast against naval threats. The fort served as a key naval base and was later established as the headquarters of the under Admiral in the early , enhancing its role in defending against and other European incursions. Architecturally, it features robust stone bastions designed for artillery defense, along with internal structures including temple-like edifices that underscore Maratha . Access to the fort is possible via a 600-meter exposed only during low tide, allowing visitors to approach on foot while emphasizing its tidal isolation for defensive purposes. Revdanda Fort, situated about 15 kilometers south of Alibag along the Revdanda creek, represents from the early . Constructed in 1524 under permission from the , the fort was built to control trade routes and protect against rival powers, featuring high stone walls, bastions, and a strategic position overlooking the . It became a focal point for early colonial conflicts, including repeated sieges by Maratha forces between 1636 and 1683, as well as attacks by the Siddis and later the , who captured it in before it fell into ruin by the late . Today, the site includes remnants of its original fortifications alongside a modern erected in the to aid navigation, highlighting its enduring coastal significance. These forts played a crucial role in the naval defense strategies of the , safeguarding trade and countering European expansion along the coast, and their preservation underscores their ties to broader Maratha maritime history. The (ASI) has undertaken significant conservation efforts, including structural repairs and vegetation clearance at documented in 2010-11, to protect these monuments from erosion and tidal damage. Revdanda Fort's ruins have similarly benefited from ASI interventions, such as clearing overgrowth and stabilizing walls in the post-2010 period, ensuring their accessibility for historical study.

Religious sites

Alibag's religious landscape reflects its predominantly Hindu population, with approximately 83% of residents identifying as Hindu and 11% as Muslim according to the 2011 census, fostering a vibrant array of temples and mosques that serve as centers for worship and community gatherings. These sites play a crucial cultural role, drawing pilgrims and locals for festivals that emphasize devotion and coastal traditions. The Kanakeshwar Temple, an ancient shrine dedicated to , is perched on a hill near Mapgaon village, about 12 km from Alibag, and attracts devotees for its spiritual serenity and annual pilgrimage during Shravan month. The temple's rituals include offerings of milk and bilva leaves to the , symbolizing purification and renewal, while the site's elevated position enhances its role as a meditative retreat for worshippers seeking divine blessings. The Alibaug Vithal Temple, also known as the Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir in Varsoli, honors Lord Vitthal—an incarnation of —and his consort , with its 18th-century origins tied to the Angre dynasty. Festivals such as feature processions and bhajans that draw thousands of devotees from and nearby areas, underscoring the temple's significance in the Warkari tradition of devotion. Local mosques, including the Jamma Masjid in central Alibag, represent the Muslim community's heritage shaped by the town's historical role as a coastal trading , where Islamic influences arrived through in the 17th and 18th centuries. These mosques host daily prayers and observances, promoting interfaith harmony in a diverse society. Unique rituals in Alibag include the sea immersions (visarjan) during , where idols of Lord Ganesha are carried in vibrant processions to the for symbolic dissolution, representing the deity's return to his divine abode and the cycle of life. This practice, observed by public and private mandals, highlights the town's coastal identity and environmental adaptations for sustainable celebrations.

Beaches and natural areas

Alibag's coastline features several scenic beaches that attract visitors for their sandy shores and recreational opportunities. The primary beaches, including Alibaug Beach and Beach, offer a mix of relaxation and adventure amid the Arabian Sea's gentle waves. Alibaug Beach, the town's main coastal stretch, is characterized by its derived from volcanic lava rocks, creating a unique dark expanse ideal for leisurely walks and sunset viewing. This beach is particularly popular for water sports such as jet skiing, banana boat rides, and , especially during the from to May when calmer waters prevail. Approximately 6 km from Alibag town, Nagaon Beach extends about 3 km along the shore, lined with groves that provide natural shade and enhance its serene ambiance. It is renowned for occasional sightings, particularly between and , drawing eco-conscious tourists to observe these marine mammals from the shore or during guided trips. Kihim Beach, located 12 km north of Alibag, serves as a gateway to nearby natural areas with its tranquil sands backed by lush greenery and adjacent forests. These mangroves support diverse ecosystems and offer prime spots for , where visitors can spot species like the and black-hooded amid the coastal foliage. Eco-tours in Alibag emphasize sustainable exploration of these beaches and mangroves, including guided walks that highlight and responsible practices. Since 2020, conservation efforts have intensified to combat , particularly at Alibaug and Kihim beaches, through initiatives like beach clean-ups by local groups and such as dune stabilization promoted by state environmental agencies. These activities aim to mitigate erosion risks exacerbated by rising sea levels, tourism pressures, and recent urban development from 's expansion as of 2025.

Scientific sites

Alibag hosts the Alibag Magnetic Observatory, a prominent scientific installation dedicated to geomagnetic research. Established in 1904 after relocation from Observatory in to mitigate urban , it has maintained continuous recordings of variations, contributing to global datasets on geomagnetism. Operated by the Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG), the facility supports studies on , ionospheric dynamics, and geophysical phenomena, with its data aiding and disaster preparedness. The serves as a base for marine magnetic surveys in the adjacent , enabling geophysical mapping of the seabed that informs broader oceanographic research. These surveys, conducted in collaboration with national agencies, help chart magnetic anomalies relevant to resource exploration and environmental assessments, though direct ecological studies on or fisheries are facilitated through regional partnerships rather than on-site labs. Post-2015, integrated data from such surveys has supported monitoring of coastal changes influenced by climate variability. Coastal environmental monitoring in Alibag leverages the observatory's for tracking geomagnetic influences on atmospheric conditions, including those linked to formation and propagation in the region. Specialized labs at the site analyze magnetic field perturbations tied to activity, providing inputs for dispersion models and impact assessments during events. This work aligns with national efforts to correlate geomagnetic data with for . Public access programs at the observatory promote scientific , offering guided visits for schools and tourists focused on astronomy-related geomagnetism and marine science. These initiatives, organized by IIG since the early , include demonstrations of magnetic instruments and lectures on stargazing applications, fostering public engagement with earth sciences. Alibag's relatively low urban interference enhances the site's suitability for such observational activities.

Infrastructure

Transport

Alibag is primarily accessible by road and water routes, with limited rail options and ongoing infrastructure developments aimed at improving connectivity to Mumbai and surrounding areas. The town lies along National Highway 66 (NH-66), which provides the main overland link from , covering approximately 95-100 km via in about 2-3 hours depending on traffic conditions. Local bus services operated by the (MSRTC) connect Alibag to and nearby towns in the region, with frequent departures from Mumbai's key terminals. Water transport serves as a popular and scenic alternative, with ferry services running from Mumbai's to Mandwa Jetty, approximately 20 km from Alibag, taking roughly 45-60 minutes. These services include catamarans and speedboats managed by private operators such as PNP Infra and Maldar Catamarans, accommodating both passengers and vehicles via roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) ferries. Operations are weather-dependent, with suspensions during the monsoon season from June to September. Rail connectivity is indirect, as Alibag lacks a dedicated station; the nearest is Railway Station, approximately 28 km away on the Railway line, requiring a subsequent bus or ride. Trains from Mumbai's Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus reach in about 2-3 hours. Among upcoming projects, the Rewas-Karanja Bridge on the Coastal Highway is under construction, with the 2.2 km creek-spanning structure at 18% completion as of November 2025, expected to reduce travel time from to Alibag to under an hour upon finishing around 2028. Additionally, the , inaugurated on October 8, 2025 and located approximately 75 km away, with commercial operations commencing in December 2025, will enhance aerial access to the region, integrating with planned multimodal corridors like the Virar-Alibaug project for broader connectivity by 2030.

Education

Alibag taluka, encompassing the town and surrounding rural areas, maintains a rate of 85.92% as per the 2011 Census, with male at 91.84% and female at 79.91%. This rate reflects the taluka's overall educational landscape, where primary and is provided through a mix of government and private institutions. Government-run Zilla Parishad () primary schools, such as R.Z.P. School Shirgaon and R.Z.P. School Kihim, serve rural students with basic Marathi-medium instruction up to VII, focusing on foundational and . Private institutions like St. Mary's Convent Higher Secondary School and Holy Child CBSE School offer from nursery to XII, emphasizing holistic development with facilities for sports and extracurriculars, catering to urban and semi-urban families. Higher education in Alibag is supported by undergraduate colleges affiliated with the , providing programs in , , and . JSM College (Janata Shikshan Mandal's College of Arts, Commerce & Science) offers bachelor's degrees in subjects like B.Sc. in Physics and Chemistry, B.A. in , and B.Com., with an emphasis on accessible education for local youth. Similarly, PNP College delivers comparable courses, including vocational-oriented options in , and has enrolled around 2,000 students since its establishment over two decades ago. These institutions prioritize conceptual learning in and , preparing graduates for regional employment or further studies. Vocational training initiatives address Alibag's coastal economy, particularly in fisheries, through programs at the Government Industrial Training Institute (ITI) Alibag. The ITI provides certificate courses in fisheries extension and related trades, equipping trainees with skills in sustainable and marine resource management to support the local fishing community. Post-2020 developments include expanded short-term training at ITI Alibag under the Maharashtra State Board of Skill, and Training, introducing modules in and to align with the region's growing eco-tourism sector. These programs, lasting a few months, focus on skills like guiding and hospitality services, aiding youth in leveraging Alibag's beaches and heritage sites for employment. Despite progress, educational access remains a challenge in Alibag's rural outskirts, where tribal communities like the Katkari face high dropout rates due to , inadequate , and language barriers in schools staffed by non-tribal teachers. Enrollment in primary and secondary levels has shown steady growth in , mirroring Maharashtra's statewide trend of over 95% gross enrollment ratio for ages 6-14 since the mid-2010s, though rural disparities persist.

Healthcare

Alibag's primary public healthcare facility is the Government Civil , a 360-bed institution established in 1872 that serves as the district hospital for Raigad and handles a wide range of medical services, including and general treatments. The hospital is affiliated with the Government Medical College, Alibag, which commenced operations in the 2021-22 academic year to address regional and training needs. In addition to the civil hospital, several clinics and multispecialty hospitals operate in Alibag, offering outpatient services for common conditions such as dermatological issues often associated with coastal exposure, including skin infections and allergies exacerbated by and contact. A significant expansion in healthcare is underway with the of a new 500-bed government and allied facilities at Usar village, approximately 8 km from Alibag, approved by the government in 2021 and with its laid in February 2022 at a cost of Rs 450 crore. As of September 2025, the project remains in progress, funded in part by the , aiming to enhance tertiary care capacity and reduce the burden on the existing civil . This is part of broader efforts to increase medical seats and beds in underserved coastal districts like Raigad. Public health initiatives in Alibag and surrounding Raigad areas emphasize preventive care through vaccination programs under the . For instance, large-scale vaccination drives in 2021 administered doses to over 75,000 residents in three days, while a 2025 Japanese encephalitis vaccination campaign targeted children aged 1-15 across the district, including Alibag taluka. Maternal and child health efforts include promotion of Mother and Child (MCH) cards for antenatal tracking, with community-based programs in rural Raigad improving awareness and service utilization among tribal populations. These initiatives also incorporate disaster preparedness, aligning with Maharashtra's state disaster management plan for cyclone-prone coastal regions, though specific clinic-based responses in Alibag focus more on routine immunization and health education. Despite these advancements, Alibag's healthcare system faces challenges, including a of medical personnel, with rural Raigad reporting high turnover as doctors prefer urban private practice over government postings in remote areas. Statewide, primary and secondary facilities experience a 22% deficit in doctors, contributing to overburdened staff at the civil . Residents often rely on for advanced treatments like specialized surgeries, facilitated by ferry and road transport links for medical evacuations during emergencies.

Economy and Administration

Local government

Alibag is governed by the , also known as , which operates as the primary local administrative body responsible for urban services and development in the town. The council is headed by an elected and an appointed chief officer who oversees day-to-day operations, including policy implementation and administrative functions. The municipal area is divided into wards for electoral purposes, with final ward formations published in to facilitate general elections, incorporating population data from the 2011 census for reservations. As the headquarters of since its renaming in 1981 from the former Kulaba district, Alibag's falls under the oversight of the District Collector, who coordinates with authorities on regional and initiatives. The council manages essential civic services for a population of 20,743 as of the 2011 census, focusing on sustainable urban management. Key services include waste management, where the council handles the collection, treatment, and disposal of solid waste across the municipal area to ensure public health and environmental compliance. Water supply is sourced primarily from local facilities such as the Vesvi Tank and other regional water bodies, with the council responsible for distribution and maintenance to meet daily needs. Additionally, the council has implemented recent smart city initiatives under the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) 2.0 scheme (2021–2026), with grounded projects valued at approximately ₹16.22 crore aimed at improving urban infrastructure like water supply and sanitation. The most recent municipal elections occurred in 2022, determining the composition of the council through ward-based voting, with the (BJP) holding dominant influence in local governance amid broader regional political trends.

Economic activities

Alibag's economy is anchored in , , and , with these sectors forming the backbone of local livelihoods and contributing to the broader Raigad district's growth. Small-scale industries supplement these primary activities, though the region faces challenges from seasonal fluctuations and limitations. Agriculture remains a foundational sector, with , and mango cultivation predominant due to the area's fertile coastal soils and . Coconut plantations are widespread, providing both local and export potential, while rice paddies and mango orchards, including the renowned Alphonso , support farm-based employment for a significant portion of the rural population. These crops align with Raigad district's agricultural profile, where and food grains drive productivity. Fishing constitutes a critical non-agricultural pillar, serving as the primary livelihood for coastal communities in Alibag and employing approximately 20% of the local workforce through marine capture and related processing. The Arabian Sea's rich fisheries yield species like pomfret and mackerel, sustaining small-scale operations and contributing to Maharashtra's overall marine landings, which totaled over 8 lakh tonnes in 2022–23. This sector underscores Alibag's role in the state's blue economy, though it is vulnerable to monsoon disruptions. Tourism has surged as a key growth driver, drawing visitors to Alibag's beaches and historical sites, with pre-2020 annual footfall exceeding 1 million and generating around 30% of local revenue via hotels, homestays, and ancillary services. Iconic attractions like recorded 33,073 domestic visitors in 2022, highlighting the sector's scale. Post-COVID recovery has been robust, with 15% growth in tourism-related activities in 2023 and approximately 35% growth in 2024, fueled by proximity to and improved accessibility. The opening of the Atal Setu (Mumbai Trans Harbour Link) in January 2024 has further transformed Alibag's economy by reducing travel time from to under 90 minutes, resulting in a 40% increase in tourist footfall in 2024 and enhanced opportunities for trade and logistics. Small-scale industries, including panning along the coastal flats and limited at nearby facilities like Rewas port, provide supplementary employment and diversify income sources. These activities have benefited from regional , with Raigad aligning to Maharashtra's 7.3% state GDP growth in 2023-24 at constant prices. However, challenges persist, such as seasonal employment in and , compounded by gaps in roads and ports, which ongoing development projects as of 2025 aim to mitigate through enhanced transport links that facilitate trade.

Geographical indications

Alibag, located in Maharashtra's , is renowned for its white onions, which received a (GI) tag on September 29, 2021, recognizing their unique qualities tied to terroir. These onions are cultivated in the region's red laterite soil, which contributes to their distinctive mild sweetness, low pungency, and tear-free chopping experience, making them suitable for raw consumption in salads and therapeutic uses like treating coughs and digestive issues. Annual production in the Alibag area reaches approximately 5,000 tons, supporting a growing number of farmers who favor this variety for its profitability over traditional crops. The status has significantly enhanced the economic prospects for local onion farmers by enabling premium pricing, with the tagged produce fetching higher values in domestic markets. This recognition allows farmers to command up to a 20-30% premium compared to non- onions, directly boosting their and encouraging sustainable practices amid the region's agricultural . Exports of Alibag white onions have expanded to nearby urban centers like , where demand for their authentic flavor drives sales through wholesale markets such as APMC, further integrating the product into broader supply chains. Beyond economic gains, the tag plays a crucial role in protecting the integrity of Alibag s by legally restricting the use of the name to produce from the designated area, thereby preventing adulteration with inferior varieties from other regions. This safeguard preserves the of onion farming in Alibag, where the has been a staple for generations, and ensures consumers receive the genuine product with its health-promoting attributes. While Alibag's agricultural sector explores GI potential for local mango varieties like Karle and coastal cashews, only the holds official status as of 2025, underscoring its prominence in the area's protected specialties.