Open homestays near treks, temples; promote green tourism, says report

DEHRADUN: Promoting sustainable tourism, strengthening the telecommunication system, encouraging water conservation and rain water harvesting, and efficient traffic management at eco-tourism sites are among measures that the Uttarakhand government should take to boost eco-tourism, a report prepared by the Rural Development and Migration Commission has suggested.
The report released by Trivendra Singh Rawat on Tuesday also said that use of non-conventional energy sources should be encouraged and arrangements be made for toilets at eco-tourism sites.
The commission said that a single agency - Eco-Tourism Development Corporation - should be given the task of eco-tourism development in the state. Adequate information about such sites should be available on a website or web application, the report said.
It put emphasis on linking various eco-tourism spots and homestay schemes to the nearest trekking sites, temples and other tourist destinations. The report authors suggested linking women with skill development programmes.
While releasing the report, CM Rawat said that nature is most important for eco-tourism. “Protection of nature and maintaining ecological balance should be our topmost priority, and while protecting nature, the state government is trying to increase employment opportunities and prevent migration as well,” he said.
Rawat also said that Sita temple, Sita Kuti, Vida Kuti in Sitansu in Pauri Garhwal will be developed for pilgrims. “Soon, a pad yatra or jat yatra will be organised at this place which will be up to 5km long,” said the CM. Laxman temple in Deval near Sitansu will also be developed by the state government.
The CM also asked the secretary (tourism) to take measures to boost the number of tourists coming for rafting with a special focus on improvement of safety standards.