Assam Tourism has proved again that it is only interested in showbiz.
The fact that it is least bothered about elevating the infrastructure and other tourism facilities is exemplified by the dilapidated condition of a tourist resort in Kaziranga National Park.
Jupuri is located inside the Kohora Tourist Complex and used to be run by Assam Tourism Development Corporation (ATDC).
The property was leased by Network.
However, it is lying unattended for the last 18 months.
The lease with Network has presumably expired and it was not renewed nor new party was involved in its management.
The place which should have been an added benefit for the tourists visiting the famed national park is now a ghosts’ paradise.
The place was a small but pleasant property of eight standalone cottages and an open-air restaurant.
Cottages were fitted with air-conditioners and geysers.
Power back-up facilities was also provided in case of outages.
It is an ideal location for staying and exploring the surrounding areas.
The resort’s proximity to the Kaziranga National Park and closeness to the entrance is its added advantage.
The property is small but tastefully landscaped and with its pocket-friendly tariff, a big draw for both Indian and overseas visitors.
But the Tourism department seems to be least interested in catering to the tourists through this resort.
As a result, the state has also lost revenue in these 18 months.
Renovation work and restarting of the resort will also cost the department a sizeable amount of money.
Questions are being raised on whose fault such a facility is being kept abandoned?
Locals alleged that the ATDC is more interested in changing floor tiles of their lodges every alternate years.
It seldom cares about improving the furniture in dinning hall, their towels, their bed sheets, as tourist look for clean place, alleged locals.
ATDC has now become Assam Tiles Development Corporation, feels a local resident of Kohora.
