The Government of India has signed a loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for US $ 123.51 million for upgrading Tourism Infrastructure and Services in States of Punjab, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh. The loan will be used for development and conservation of places of tourist attractions.
The loan will support conservation of important heritage structures, including some century-old structures, new facilities including centers for arts and crafts in the three states. Eco-parks and eco-tourism will also be developed to help the states attract more tourists.
The loan amount will be used for upgrading tourism infrastructure like provisioning of drinking water, drainage, street lighting, solid waste management and improvements to approach roads at selected tourist destinations will enhance tourism environment in the States of Himachal Pradesh, Punjab and Uttarakhand.
To improve income opportunities for the local communities, more than 4,000 community members are set to be trained in tourism-related skills such as guides, crafts, and other recreational activities. At least 30 community-based societies will be made operational in the management of natural and cultural heritage sites.
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