HBI Staff | Hyderabad 
Hotel associations in Dharamsala recently met with Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu to address the decline in tourism in the region. Highlighting the urgent need for better infrastructure and connectivity, the associations proposed several initiatives to revitalize the hospitality sector and attract more visitors to this scenic destination.
Sanjeev Gandhi, General Secretary of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Smart City Dharamsala, presented a memorandum to the CM, outlining innovative ideas to enhance the tourism experience. One notable proposal was the development of a mall road and ridge in Mcleodganj, inspired by Shimla’s iconic ridge. The project envisions constructing a concrete slab over the Himachal Pradesh Road Transport Corporation (HPRTC) bus stand, connecting it to the Mcleodganj-Naddi road. This structure would host a food street market, offering tourists panoramic views of Dharamsala, potentially becoming a major attraction in the region. The CM welcomed the idea and directed officials to prepare a detailed project report.
Ashwani Bamba, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Kangra, also submitted a memorandum focusing on expediting pending road projects that are critical to improving access to key tourist spots. These include the sinking portions of the Khara Danda road, the incomplete Indrunag-Bangottu-Bhagsunag road, and stalled work on the Mcleodganj-Bhagsunag and Dharamkot-Naddi roads. The completion of these projects, according to the associations, would significantly ease traffic congestion and enhance the travel experience for visitors.
The associations also called for the restoration of Dharamsala’s Dal Lake, which has dried up, and the introduction of a winter carnival in Mcleodganj, similar to Shimla’s, to attract tourists during the off-season. They further requested the opening of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) convention center in Bhagsu, the installation of smart streetlights along the Mcleodganj-Dharamkot road, and the creation of parking facilities in Dharamkot’s main square.
Connectivity improvements featured prominently in their demands, including the conversion of the Pathankot-Jogindernagar narrow-gauge railway line to broad gauge and the expansion of Gaggal Airport. The associations expressed gratitude to the CM for initiating the airport expansion project, which is expected to provide a significant boost to tourism in the Kangra region.
These proposals, if implemented, aim to strengthen Dharamsala’s position as a premier tourist destination and support the local hospitality industry, which plays a vital role in the region’s economy. The CM’s positive response has sparked hope among stakeholders that the government will take swift action to address these pressing issues.
source: The Tribune
