Hotel classification procedures simplified

In a significant move, Tourism Ministry has decided to simplify the hotel classification and re-classification procedure by not seeking the licences and clearances which are issued by various local, state and central government authorities for operation of hotels.
These include land utilisation certificate, building completion certificate, coastal zone regulation clearance, forest and environment clearance, pollution control clearance, police clearance, fire safety clearance, airport authority clearance, health and sanitation clearance.
Henceforth, while applying for classification and re-classification, the hotels would be required to submit only the current and valid trade licence and bar licence, if applicable, said a senior Tourism Ministry official, adding, "The decision would remove unwanted procedure and speed up the classification and re-classification process."

Ministry feels that in case of any violation of any Act, Rule, Regulation or Guidelines issued by the local, state or central government authorities by any hotel, the respective authorities are fully competent to take action against the unit.
The Ministry's classification or re-classification will remain valid only if the hotel has all licences and clearances that are required.
The official said in case, any unit is found not operating as per requirements, its classification or re-classification would cease to be operational with immediate effect.
The Ministry would continue to classify or reclassify hotels on the basis of amenities, facilities and services provided by the unit.