Anurag Thakur Pushes for Tourism Boost and Better Connectivity in Himachal

Former Union Minister and Hamirpur MP Anurag Singh Thakur brought key tourism and infrastructure issues in Himachal Pradesh into focus during a Public Accounts Committee (PAC) meeting held in Dharamsala. The discussions centred on improving facilities for visitors while ensuring faster and more coordinated implementation of major projects.

Reviewing important tourism initiatives, Thakur highlighted the proposed redevelopment of the Chintpurni Temple under the Swadesh Darshan 2.0 programme. Emphasising the need to keep projects on track, he called for better coordination between central ministries, the state government and concerned agencies. He said strengthening tourism infrastructure would not only promote cultural and religious tourism but also support local livelihoods. Possibilities related to adventure tourism were also discussed, with stress on sustainable and environmentally responsible development.

In a separate interaction with officials from the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the National Highways Authority of India and NHIDCL, Thakur raised concerns over toll collection, tariff structures and highway user charges. He also sought clarity on the recently introduced state road tax, underlining the need for fair and balanced regulations that do not overburden commuters.

Air connectivity was another major focus area. During discussions on the UDAN scheme with the Ministry of Civil Aviation, DGCA and the Airports Authority of India, Thakur pressed for steps to improve flight connectivity in the hill state. He specifically called for the expansion of Kangra airport and the resolution of operational challenges at Shimla airport, saying better air links are crucial for tourism growth and regional development.

Overall, Thakur stressed that improved infrastructure, smoother travel and timely project execution are essential for unlocking Himachal Pradesh’s full tourism potential.