Bihar to model key tourist sites on Statue of Unity, Vaishno Devi

Patna: The state govt has decided to develop the tourist sites of Gaya, Bodh Gaya, Rohtas-Kaimur, and Vaishali on the lines of Statue of Unity in Gujarat and Vaishno Devi, with added attractions and facilities meeting global tourism standards. The decision also includes giving industry status for the tourism sector to attract private investments.At a high-level review meeting chaired by chief secretary Pratyaya Amrit on Monday, the state tourism department was instructed to conduct detailed study of the Statue of Unity and Vaishno Devi models to guide the development of Bihar’s listed sites. Tourism department secretary and other officials, along with district officials, participated in the meeting via video conferencing.The review was based on an evaluation matrix prepared by the tourism department for developing these sites. Bodh Gaya and Vaishali were highlighted due to their historical and religious significance.Work is currently underway to create basic infrastructure, provide civic amenities, and ensure last-mile connectivity. There is also an emphasis on promoting private sector participation through public-private partnerships (PPP).Amrit advised tourism department officials that the listed tourist sites in Bihar should not be developed solely based on local needs. Instead, he stressed that they should be developed to meet the needs and requirements of international tourists. For this purpose, he suggested studying the facilities at the Statue of Unity and Vaishno Devi first, and then preparing a work plan based on those findings.He also directed the department to take steps for the early issuance of a notification granting industry status to the tourism sector, anticipating that this will boost private investment. The chief secretary instructed the department to complete necessary documentation for its centrally-supported projects to ensure a continuous flow of central assistance.Instructions were also given for urgent reforms and improvements in the quality of existing tourist services and information centres. Additionally, the work being undertaken according to the evaluation matrix should be monitored.