Covid protocol in place for tourist season in Himachal, says minister

Our Correspondent

Kullu, April 16

Education Minister Govind Singh Thakur said safety of every citizen of the state was the priority of the government, especially during the Covid-19 crisis. He convened a meeting today with administrative officials and stakeholders related to tourism for smooth functioning of the business and related activities in Manali. Office-bearers and members of the taxi union, hotel association, rafting association, paragliding association and various other beneficiaries of the tourism industry addressed their issues and concerns before the minister.

The minister said, “The tourist season is about to start and we have to be fully prepared to welcome the guests visiting the district.” He said the Manali Hoteliers’ Association had already taken all measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19. He said he did not want to let the tourism of the district be affected like the last year and for that it was necessary that all businessmen followed the protocol. Thakur said, “The state is leading a strong fight against the pandemic and we sincerely hope that people will cooperate.” He directed the health department officials to hold meetings with associations at different places to make them aware of the guidelines.

The minister said parking spots should be identified at some places along the road for tourist vehicles from Solang Nala to Atal Tunnel’s south portal. He said local people should be allowed to do certain tourism-related activities in a planned manner so that their business was not affected.

Thakur said during summer additional police force should be deployed between Manali to Solang Nala to manage the vehicular movement.

He also directed to set up mobile toilets at some places towards Solang Nala and Atal Tunnel.