Environment concern to be addressed in Kullu-Manali: Roy

"Providing basic facilities to the tourists on the banks of river Parbati in Manikaran area would be renovated at the cost of Rs 40 lakh besides constructing Rs 60 lakh worth biodegradable and electronic toilets, Roy said in a press release here.

Preserving the pristine beauty of the area, he said, the scientific disposal of garbage, adequate number of dustbins and solar lights would be set up at Manikaran.

The state government is embarking upon the eco-tourism activities in Banjar area in a big way, he said, adding that inspection hut in Shoja, forest rest houses in Jibhi and Banjar were being refurnished without disturbing the traditional structure of the same while the trek route to Lambri was to be improved.

To attract more tourists to the area, Roy said that 30 camping sites at Bahu, Gada-Gushani, Deori and Sainj with modern facilities were being set up, he added.

The state chief secretary said that similar activities were being taken in Solang nullah, Kothi and Rohtang to facilitate the tourists while trekking routes from Beas nullah to Sagu water fall and Gulaba to Bhrigu lake were being restored.

As many as 28 lakh tourists visited Kullu-Manali area last year out of which 1.5 lakh were foreigners, he added.

Roy thanked the Union government for sanctioning first Mega Tourism Project worth Rs 34 crore for the state.