Govt to provide better facilities to visitors at tourist sites in Karnataka, says Minister HK Patil
Mysuru: Minister for Law, Justice, Parliamentary Affairs and Tourism HK Patil has said that the state government is considering the implementation of a tourist police system across Karnataka for the convenience of tourists to the state.
Addressing a press conference in Mysuru, the minister said that Karnataka’s cultural and natural heritage was iconic in the world and efforts would be taken to develop it. “The Chamundi Hills will be developed under the Prasad scheme. I have held discussion with concerned officials and a committee will also be formed to handle the preparations to host the world famous Mysuru Dasara event, which attracts about 50 lakh people every year and is to be held in about three months’ time,” Patil said.
“Jungle lodges and resorts had a turnover of Rs 61 crore in 2020-21 and Rs 111 crore in 2022-23. A plan will be made and implemented to increase the number of tourists from 40 per cent to 70 per cent. Special packages will be offered to senior citizens and college students, including PU College and undergraduate students. Arrangements will be made to provide passes for tourists to go sightseeing in various places,” he said.
“The five guarantee schemes of the state government have already been implemented. The Shakti Yojana for women has especially contributed to a hike in the number of visitors to tourist spots. Appropriate steps will be taken to provide basic facilities at tourist spots, to ensure a further increase in the number,” said Patil.
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Army rescues 135 tourists from landslides-hit North Sikkim, many still stranded
Gangtok (PTI): A total of 135 stranded tourists have been rescued by the Army from North Sikkim, where multiple landslides have snapped road connectivity, officials said on Thursday.
Around 1,000 tourists remain stranded in Lachen, with sustained efforts underway to ensure their rescue at the earliest, they said.
The rescue operation is being carried out by the Trishakti Corps under the Eastern Command amid heavy snowfall, they added.
Critical passes have been opened and alternate routes activated to facilitate the rescue mission, named 'Operation Him Setu', officials said.
A total of 32 light vehicles and 10 motorcycles have been moved out so far, with Army vehicles deployed to tow civilian vehicles across steep, snowbound stretches, they said.
Medical emergencies and those requiring immediate assistance are being prioritised, officials said.
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) is working in close coordination with the Army, undertaking continuous road clearance, snow removal and restoration of connectivity despite challenging terrain and weather, they said.
"Our foremost priority is the safety and well-being of every citizen. Our teams remain committed to providing all necessary assistance on the ground," an Army official said.
Multiple landslides have disrupted road connectivity between Lachen and Chungthang, an area close to the India-China border.
