Master plan sought for constructions in Lahaul
Dipender Manta
Tribune News Service
Mandi, November 8
The Hoteliers Association of Lahaul has urged the state government to regulate the construction of residential and commercial buildings under a master plan in the Lahaul valley. After the opening of the Atal Tunnel, more hotels and residential buildings are being constructed in the region.
The association is concerned about haphazard constructions in the Lahaul valley. It believes that haphazard constructions will mar the beauty of the valley. Therefore, the government must bring in a master plan here.
Tashi Barongpa, secretary of hoteliers association, Lahaul, told The Tribune, “After the opening of the Atal tunnel, there has been a significant increase in tourist influx. As a result, the residents of the valley started constructing homestays, restaurants, huts and hotels for commercial activities.”
“At present we, have open space for the construction of commercial and residential buildings. The people are constructing commercial buildings on the roadside though on their own land. We want the government to ensure constructions here in a regulated manner. Big structures should be discouraged,” he said.
Rigzin Samphel Heyreppa, president of Lahaul Eco Tourism Society, said “The panchayat authorities should allow constructions in a controlled way. The outer structure of the buildings should be in Lahauli architecture. It will play a crucial role in attracting tourists.”
Maintain beauty
We do not want the Lahaul valley to look like other townships which have lost their beauty due to haphazard constructions. It is the right time for the authorities to step in to ensure constructions under the master plan. — Tashi Barongpa, secretary of hoteliers association Lahaul
