DTDO shuts down various adventure activities being run illegally
District Tourism Development Officer (DTDO), Shimla, Jagdish Sharma, conducted a surprise inspection of various adventure activities and zip lines operating illegally in Jhamunda and Siddhpur in Narkanda and shut them down. He said that the Tourism Department is committed to ensuring the safety of tourists, and this action has been taken in this regard.
He explained that the Tourism Department provides licenses for the smooth operation of jeeping lines and various adventure activities, and these licenses are issued after complying with all safety regulations. Therefore, notices have been issued to four operators, providing necessary guidance and directing them to remove all equipment related to illegal activities within seven days. The Kotgarh Forest Department has also been informed that no equipment or structures should be permitted on forest land.
Jagdish Sharma said that it has come to light that very serious information has come to light that at some places zip line and other various adventure activities are being conducted without legal permission and registration, which is completely illegal and a violation of the Himachal Pradesh Miscellaneous Adventure Activities Rules-2017 and the amended rules-2021.
The Tourism Department clarifies that legal permission, technical inspection, safety certification, trained technical staff, and insurance and compliance with safety standards are mandatory for such activities. Conducting such activities without approval is not only punishable but also poses a serious threat to the safety of tourists and local residents. The general public and all organizations involved in tourist adventure activities are informed that any adventure activity can only be conducted after obtaining legal permission and registration.
The Honorable Himachal Pradesh High Court has also taken serious cognizance of this matter and has directed that adventure activities being conducted without permission in the state should be immediately stopped and strict action should be taken against the culprits as per the rules. If any person, organization or operator is found involved in conducting these activities without permission, strict administrative action will be taken against them as per the rules, which may include sealing the activity site and imposing fines or legal penalties . He said that all operators have been instructed that if they wish to conduct such activities, they should immediately apply for registration with the Tourism Department.
