Halt the collection of entry fees for tourists visiting Buxa: Mamata

MP, 22 Jan 2025, Alipurduar: Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Wednesday directed the authorities of Buxa Tiger Reserve (BTR) to immediately halt the collection of entry fees at the Rajabhatkhawa gate. 

The decision was announced during an administrative meeting in Alipurduar, where the Chief Minister expressed strong displeasure over the existing fee structure and restrictions on activities like nature camps and picnics within the reserve. 

“Who authorised you to charge tourists for entry? Is the Forest department outside the government? No fees will be collected from tourists anymore. The Forest department cannot act unilaterally,” the Chief Minister said, criticising the practice as unjust. 

She directed state Chief Secretary Harekrishna Dwivedi to take swift action to enforce the decision. For years, tourists entering Buxa Tiger Reserve have been charged Rs 450 per vehicle, Rs 80 per bike and Rs 160 per person. 

This fee structure, coupled with charges for children’s nature camps, has drawn criticism from local tourism operators. Alipurduar MLA Suman Kanjilal highlighted the issue, stating: “Exorbitant fees discourage tourists and deter organisations from organising nature study camps for children. This will lead to tourists visiting other states like Jharkhand and Orissa where as we will lose out on the economy.” Responding to the MLA’s statement, Banerjee ordered an immediate review. 

“Raise the issue in the Assembly. Change this policy immediately. No fees should be charged. We must encourage tourism to create jobs and boost the local economy,” she emphasised. Banerjee also advocated for allowing tourists to picnic in designated areas near the forest to minimize the risk of wildlife encounters. 

The Chief Minister addressed concerns over the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) directive that led to the closure of homestays in Buxa. She instructed Forest Secretary Manoj Agarwal to challenge the order in the High Court, with the participation of affected homestay owners. 

“We will fight this in court. Homestay owners must be made a party also — they will support us,” she asserted. Taking a swipe at the Union Environment Ministry, Banerjee said: “No one conserves forests like we do. Why can’t other states manage their tigers? Why do the tigers come to Bengal in search of food? If a tiger comes here, the Central government should send a team to rescue it.” 

The Chief Minister also instructed the Forest Chief Secretary to address long-standing demands for regulated sand and boulder extraction from the riverbed at Jayanti. She urged the Forest department to hold weekly meetings to resolve pending issues and streamline operations. 

The local tourism industry welcomed the announcement. Parthasarathi Roy, president of the Dooars Tourism Welfare Society, said: “We applaud the Chief Minister’s decision. Many tourists left from Rajabhatkhawa Gate due to the steep fees. 

This change will significantly boost tourism. Resolving issues like the homestay closure will further support the local economy.”

Courtesy & source- Millennium Post

https://www.millenniumpost.in/bengal/halt-the-collection-of-entry-fees-for-tourists-visiting-buxa-mamata-595863