Hotel Association Calls for Strategic Tourism Master Plan in Odisha
In anticipation of its 40th foundation day on March 1, the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Odisha (HRAO) has formally requested the state government to formulate a detailed master plan aimed at developing 15 key tourist destinations. The association has urged that this comprehensive blueprint be submitted to the Central government for necessary support and funding.
Demand for Projections and Infrastructure Assessment
In an official media statement, the HRAO emphasized the critical need for the government to create both short-term annual and long-term four-year projections for tourist footfall growth. The association stressed that these projections must be accompanied by a thorough assessment of the infrastructure requirements at major tourist destinations across the state.
The HRAO has also advocated for periodic reviews of these projections during meetings of the State Tourism Promotion Council, ensuring that development strategies remain aligned with evolving tourism trends and demands.
Enhancing Connectivity and Tourism Promotion
HRAO Chairman JK Mohanty reiterated the association's longstanding demand to extend the Mahaparinirvan Express train service, which currently operates from New Delhi to Bodhgaya, all the way to Puri. This extension is viewed as a pivotal move to significantly boost Buddhist tourism in Odisha.
Mohanty further highlighted ongoing efforts to improve domestic flight connectivity to and from key cities including Bodhgaya, Pune, Udaipur, and Allahabad. The association has called for expediting the proposed international airport at Puri, envisioning it as a major aviation hub in eastern India that would facilitate increased international tourist arrivals.
Support Measures for the Hospitality Sector
The HRAO has requested that the state government provide industrial electricity tariffs for hotels, regardless of their size. This measure is intended to offer substantial financial relief and support to the tourism and hospitality sector, which is a major economic driver for the region.
In a bid to enhance the state's tourism appeal, the association has suggested appointing a leading actor or actress as Odisha's official tourism brand ambassador. This strategy aims to leverage celebrity influence to attract more domestic and international visitors.
Regulatory Reforms and Simplification
The association has pointed out the need for regulatory reforms, specifically seeking the simplification of provisions under the SARAI Act. HRAO officials argue that many current regulatory requirements are outdated and do not align with the operational needs of modern hospitality establishments.
Additionally, the association has called for a more streamlined and easier process to obtain fire licences, which would reduce bureaucratic hurdles for hoteliers and restaurant owners.
Foundation Day and Budget Commentary
Mohanty announced that the HRAO's 40th foundation day celebrations will bring together industry leaders, policymakers, and various tourism stakeholders. The event is designed to review past progress, address current challenges, and outline a strategic future roadmap for the sector's growth.
Commenting on the recently presented state budget, Mohanty expressed approval, noting that it reflects the government's focused commitment to building a sustainable, infrastructure-led, and globally competitive tourism sector. He stated that the measures announced for destination development and ecological conservation are poised to help Odisha emerge as a world-class tourism destination while simultaneously protecting its rich cultural and natural heritage.
