GTA to renovate tourism spots in Mirik

MIRIK, EOI: After decades of prolonged ignorance by the administration, the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration has now decided to renovate the tourist destinations in and around the Mirik region. 

Nestled in the lap of the Darjeeling hills, Mirik is widely known as a major tourist destination. Mirik Lake, located at 1494 metres above sea level, attracts domestic as well as overseas tourists. 

However, over the last two decades the region’s tourism sector suffered considerably mainly because of complacency shown by the government and concerned authorities of the time. 

The GTA has shown keen interest to renovate existing tourist spots of the area and has initiated work as well. Presently, renovation work to the Swiss Cottage, Day Centre and Tourist Lodge are being undertaken, while the glass house, aquarium house and flower garden are awaiting their turn. 

GTA executive member Phubi Rai said the administrative body’s tourism department has been conducting surveys of the lake and the surrounding areas with an aim to resolve all problems that have surfaced. He noted many people who depended on tourism have changed their occupation due to negligence towards the sector. 

Rai also said there has been a drastic fall in the number of tourists visiting the region. According to official estimates, more than 70 percent of the residents here depend on tourism for their livelihood.