Homestay flout in BTR

A homestay near Buxa Fort. (File picture)

ANIRBAN CHOUDHURY, TT, Dec 26, 2017, Alipurduar: Most of the private homestays in the Buxa Tiger Reserve have opened up during the winter season violating the order of National Green Tribunal.

In August, the tribunal had instructed secretary forest department, DFO BTR, and DM Alipurduar to close all the establishments in BTR. Following the order, the forest officials had issued a notice to all private establishments in the BTR to close their activities until further order issued by the tribunal. Some government establishments were also shut.

But it was found that during Christmas holidays tourists were spending nights at many private homestays violating the notice issued by forest officials.

Partha Sarothi Roy, president of Dooars Tourism Development Forum, denied the allegation and said with a smile: "All the establishments are close in the BTR. If any day visitor comes for refreshment then they use the homestays but nobody is allowed to stay there at night. There will be another hearing in the tribunal on January 3."

There are 69 private establishments and 20 government establishments in the BTR.

Pradip Bauri, deputy field director BTR(East), said: "I have also heard unofficially that tourists are staying in different establishments. So, I have asked the range officer to enquire and submit a report at the earliest."

Another forest official mentioned that if tourists are staying in private homestays then it is illegal.