Subhash Mahajan
Dalhousie : In light of the dwindling tourism industry in Dalhousie, a significant meeting was held between senior local representatives and R.S. Bali, Chairman of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC), to discuss long-pending infrastructure proposals and potential revitalization measures.
The delegation, led by former Dalhousie Assembly candidate Manish Sareen, included prominent members Rajesh Chobhiyal, Rajat Sharma, Vishal Singh, and Vikas Dhiman. The group voiced concerns over the stagnating tourism economy and urged swift action on several critical projects.
Key points on the agenda included expediting the water-based airport project at the Chamera Reservoir, establishing an airstrip in the vicinity of Dalhousie to improve connectivity, and revisiting the previously proposed Pathankot-Dalhousie ropeway. Discussions also extended to the construction of the Dalhousie-Dharamshala Tourism Corridor, aimed at fostering regional synergy and boosting visitor traffic.
The delegation further recommended reducing the current GST rate on tourism-related services to 5%, arguing that it would ease financial pressure on operators and stimulate local business.
Chairman R.S. Bali acknowledged the concerns and assured the delegation of his commitment to revitalizing Dalhousie’s tourism landscape. He promised an early visit to assess ground realities and accelerate decision-making on pending proposals.
As Dalhousie battles seasonal decline and competition from emerging destinations, these efforts signify a push toward sustainable growth and infrastructure improvement, with community leaders playing an active role in shaping the region’s tourism future.
