Mulls for implementing concept in other tourist spots
In order to create a sense of attachment among the locals residing near prominent tourist spots, the Government is roping them to manage such places. These denizens are deployed within 15 to 25 numbers for security, life saving, eateries and maintaining sanitation and hygiene.
Presently, the concept is successfully working and attracting large number of tourists across the State and West Bengal in Dassam fall, Sita Fall, Jonha fall, Hundru Fall and Deoghar’s Baidyanathdham temple. “Deployment of cops or defence personnel at tourist junctions can mark inconvenience for tourists. They might hesitate enjoying freely. We are deploying locals so that they and the tourists can have a healthy social connection,” said Jharkhand Tourism Development Corporation limited (JTDC) managing director Sunil Kumar.
“It will also lead to a resistance free atmosphere on behalf of such villagers,” Kumar added. As many as 30 persons are in-charge of Dassam fall wherein maximum accidents are reported due to the slippery rocks. 13 persons are looking over Jonha fall. “Sita fall was earlier ignored by our department. But, the interest of villagers in constructing proper toilet and drinking water facilities encouraged us to begin the tourism service from October 1. Around six persons are managing the water fall, drinking water, urinal and shops in this locality. No recent incidents of crime have been reported from any of the fall areas,” said general manager (administration) Alok Prasad.
The corporation has started weekend non air conditioned 18 seater bus services for Deori temple, Surya temple, Dassam fall, Jonha fall, Hundru fall and Sita fall from the mentioned date. “On Saturday visitors are provided a day long service from Deori temple to Dassam fall. While, on Sunday the same bus visits Jonha fall and its nearby falls. Noticing the positive response, we may continue the service till the entire winter season,” a JTDC clerk said. The bus given by Tata Company will soon be equipped with air-conditioner.
However, Prasad pointed out on government’s plan to replicate the trend in other tourist spots as well including Betla, Netarhat, Rajrappa temple and Pahari temple. “The budget for deployment of locals in mentioned places is yet to be sanctioned. It will probably be done in the next financial year,” he added.
Notably, Government had begun a similar concept few years back for 18 tourist spots which lasted for a year. Sources at JTDC informed connecting locals for the purpose was proposed by chief secretary Sajal Chakraverty when he was posted as principal secretary of tourism department.