In response to growing concerns about domestic airfares, tour operators are urging government intervention. Advocating for the need to cap domestic fares, industry experts believe that such measures would contribute to fostering tourism within the region, news agency PTI reported.
The Ministry of Tourism is reported to be actively engaged in the comprehensive development of the Northeast, with a particular focus on 15 tourist destinations. As per the report, an official emphasized that religious tourism serves as a significant motivator for travelers in the region.
Meghalaya, in particular, is set to benefit from two schemes, Sohra and Shillong, under SD 2.0, involving an investment of up to Rs 50 crore. Additionally, the ministry has approved eight projects amounting to Rs 256.45 crore for the integrated development of pilgrimage destinations in the northeast states, as part of the PRASHAD Scheme.
To enhance the region’s infrastructure, the Ministry of Tourism has sanctioned the development of 22 viewpoints, with an estimated cost of Rs 44.44 crore. This initiative aims to provide world-class facilities for the highway network, including commercial spaces, logistic parks, and traveler facilities such as wayside amenities (WSA).
Several projects sanctioned under SD 1.0 and PRASHAD schemes have already been completed and dedicated to the public, marking a significant stride in the region’s tourism development.
Furthermore, officials highlight the remarkable improvement in air connectivity within the northeast in recent years. With 16 airports now providing accessibility to tourist destinations, the region has seen a surge in connectivity. The RCS-UDAN Scheme by the Ministry of Aviation has played a pivotal role, making 53 tourism routes operational, including 10 exclusively for the northeast.
Simultaneously, rail connectivity has witnessed significant expansion, with railways now linking seven states in the northeast. These combined efforts underscore the government’s commitment to transforming the tourism landscape of Northeast India, making it more accessible and appealing to both domestic and international travelers.