Despite tourist influx, Banjar valley lacks basic amenities

Drawn by the pristine natural beauty, thousands of tourists are flocking to the scenic spots of Raghupurgarh, Saryolsar and Jalori Pass in the Banjar valley.

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Despite their popularity, the tourist spots continue to face severe infrastructural challenges. Besides inadequate power and water supplies, fundamental necessities like toilet facilities remain largely unavailable in these areas. Camping operators in Raghupurgarh have to haul water from several kilometres, undermining their ability to cater to visitors effectively.

Local business leaders have voiced concern over the lack of proper sanitation and amenities. Businessman Bhim Singh pointed out, “All three tourist spots are on the border of Anni and Banjar in Kullu district. Situated at altitudes between 10,280 to 11,000 feet and surrounded by dense forests and lush green valleys that attract both domestic and international tourists, the nature has blessed these places with extraordinary beauty.” He underscores the disconnect between the region’s natural allure and its infrastructural shortcomings.

Tourism beneficiary Jagdish Thakur recalled that the former BJP government had incorporated the region into the ‘Nayi Manzilein, Nayi Raahein’ scheme to kickstart development, yet tangible progress remains elusive on the ground. “Now, the Congress government has talked about developing it under the Eco Tourism Site initiative,” he remarked. Thakur alleged that tents set up by local youths were removed by the Forest Department—a move that appears to favour select capital interests under the banner of eco-tourism reforms.

At Jalori Pass, measures such as designated parking areas and retail outlets have been established for local businessmen, yet significant deficits persist in water and electricity services. Recently, the Eco Tourism Development Society intervened to offer water for tourists and entrepreneurs. Similar issues persist at Raghupurgarh, located 3 kms from Jalori Pass, where electricity and water supplies are erratic. In Saryolsar, the Forest Department has constructed a market, but the power supply situation is yet to improve.

Vikas, a local resident, emphasised that the lack of sanitation facilities is major cause for concern. “There are no toilets or dustbins available,” he said, pointing out that about 3 lakh tourists visited the three locations in 2024. He called for immediate action from the government and local administration to install essential services.

Ram Lal, president of the Eco Tourism Development Society, stressed the critical need for public toilets and dustbins along the Raghupur and Saryolsar tracks leading from Jalori. He said a no-parking zone should be designated in Jalori towards Banjar to ease the chronic traffic congestion.

With tourist numbers rising steadily, the window of opportunity to transform Banjar valley into a fully sustainable, visitor-friendly destination is wide open. By addressing these basic infrastructural deficits through collaborative efforts by local authorities, state governments and private enterprises, Banjar valley can truly match its breathtaking natural appeal with world-class amenities.