In a recent address to media representatives during a visit to Kangra, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu reiterated the commitment of his government to prioritize the expansion and development of the tourism industry in Himachal Pradesh.
Emphasizing the potential of tourism to generate employment opportunities for the youth, Sukhu highlighted the state’s natural beauty, comparing it to renowned destinations like Switzerland. With its snow-capped peaks, lush green tea gardens, dense forests adorned with pines and deodars, and meandering rivers amidst picturesque hills, Himachal Pradesh boasts a captivating landscape. Sukhu stressed the importance of promoting tourism as a key revenue earner and a significant source of foreign exchange for the state.
The government has embarked on a mission to enhance tourist facilities, including the improvement of state and national highways. Notable progress has already been made, with the conversion of the Kalka-Shimla and Kiratpur-Mandi highways into four lanes, alongside ongoing widening efforts on the Pathankot-Mandi and Kangra-Shimla routes. Addressing concerns over traffic congestion at popular tourist destinations such as Shimla, Manali, McLeodganj, and Palampur, the government has proposed the installation of ropeways to alleviate road burdens. Additionally, plans are underway to widen existing roads to ensure smoother traffic flow.
Acknowledging the challenges posed by the state’s rugged terrain and forested areas, Sukhu expressed readiness to amend the tourism policy to attract private investment in infrastructure development and the establishment of tourist resorts. The announcement underscores the government’s commitment to harnessing the full potential of Himachal Pradesh’s tourism sector for economic growth and employment generation. As the state continues to enhance its tourism infrastructure and policies, stakeholders anticipate a flourishing industry that not only showcases the region’s natural splendor but also contributes significantly to its socio-economic development.
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