Himachal Pradesh Protests Relocation of Tourism Office from Shimla

In Himachal Pradesh, tourism industry workers and local residents gathered near the Vidhan Sabha to protest the relocation of the Himachal Pradesh Tourism Development Corporation (HPTDC) head office from Shimla to Dharamshala. Braving heavy rains, they staged a demonstration near Chaura Maidan, demanding the issue be debated in the Assembly and the decision rescinded.

Harish Vyas, President of the Shimla Guide and Travel Agents' Union, labelled the move as 'politically motivated,' warning it would adversely affect thousands who depend on Shimla's tourism sector. Vyas criticized the shift to Dharamshala as unnecessary, inconveniencing small workers and impacting their livelihoods.

Vijendra Mehra, State President of CITU Himachal Pradesh, called the decision 'administratively impractical,' stressing that it would impede both tourism businesses and HPTDC employees. He emphasized Shimla's historical role as a tourism hub, arguing the relocation would impose additional costs on an already financially challenged HPTDC.

Protesters warned of intensified agitation and potential legal action if the government does not reverse the decision. The demonstrators urged both ruling and opposition MLAs to discuss the issue in the Assembly.

(With inputs from agencies.)