Stakeholders in Himachal Pradesh's tourism industry emphasise that regardless of the party in power, infrastructure development and connectivity improvement should be the primary focus. They urge both the state and central governments to expedite airport projects, enhance rail connectivity, and establish tourist facilities along highways. Nishant Nag, a hotel and amusement park owner in Shimla, stressed the importance of government commitment to development irrespective of political affiliations. Himachal Pradesh's tourism sector contributes seven % to the state GDP, amounting to Rs 140 billion, and generates 14.2 % of direct and indirect employment, according to the latest economic survey. Candidates from various parties contesting elections in the region have prioritised tourism promotion and connectivity enhancement. Mukesh Thakur, president of the Manali Hoteliers Association, underscores the necessity of expanding the Bhuntar airport or constructing a new one to accommodate larger aircraft near Manali. Additionally, he highlights the need for flood protection along the Beas river and waste management facilities in tourist destinations. Ashwani Bamba, president of the Dharamshala Hotel and Restaurant Association, highlights the challenges posed by poor connectivity and insufficient parking, impacting tourism. He also emphasises the lack of recreational projects in the state. Gajender Thakur, President , Federation of Himachal Hotels and Restaurant Associations, advocates for the development of roadside facilities along highways, akin to those in foreign countries, offering essential services in one location. Pritam, a taxi driver from Shimla, stresses the importance of not only road widening but also the provision of roadside amenities to attract more tourists. He suggests government advertisements to promote tourism and the creation of parking lots. Concerns are raised about tourist exploitation by touts, discouraging visits. Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu's plans to boost tourism remain largely unrealised, with challenges such as rain-related disasters and political conflicts hindering progress. Despite these challenges, tourist inflow has seen a 6 % increase in 2023 compared to the previous year, with 16 million tourists visiting the state. However, poor air and road connectivity continue to deter tourists. M.K. Seth, President, Shimla Hotel and Tourism Stakeholders Association, suggests improving railway connectivity, particularly from southern states, and regulating unregistered accommodations to manage tourism effectively. Devinder Rana, a travel agency owner, sees immense potential in adventure sports, rural, and eco-tourism, urging the government to explore these avenues. (Source: ET)