As lockdown measures and travel restrictions are gradually easing across the country, states are taking small yet effective steps to facilitate smoother entry of tourists. Himachal Pradesh becomes the latest to join the list by relaxing its entry rules to attract greater tourist footfall. By Kumar Shree
Adhering to the latest unlock guidelines issued by the Central Government, the hilly abode of Himachal Pradesh has decided to ease its entry restrictions for tourists coming in from other Indian states. The move will help boost tourism in the state, which derives a sizable chunk of its revenue from the travel and hospitality industry. Hopefully, the step will garner expected results and help bring the tourism sector back on track.
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The decision, however, should not be seen as a means to remove all restrictions because one will still need to furnish paperwork to visit the state. The Himachal Pradesh State Government will continue to issue the much-needed e-movement passes for inter-state travel. The process of allotting these passes will be further refined to provide a smooth and hassle-free experience for travellers.
Many other changes, along with this, will also come into effect. Earlier, tourists needed to stay for a minimum of five days in the state. The cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur on Wednesday, August 26, decided on some changes in these rules. Now, the new minimum stay duration in the state is two days. Apart from that, tourists can also show a COVID-19 negative test report taken 96 hours prior to entering the state. These provisions were not available earlier.
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State’s Urban Development Minister Suresh Bhardwaj while talking to the media said that no tourists will be allowed to enter the state without a valid e-pass. Besides, the state government will track all movements via suitable mediums.
Those who wish to enter the state on an urgent basis must also follow the same procedure.
Related: Through The Lens: The Ancient Village Of Malana, Himachal Pradesh