Arunachal: Tawang steps up preparations for proposed International Tourism Mart

OUR CORRESPONDENT

Itanagar: Preparations are underway in Tawang, Arunachal Pradesh, for the proposed International Tourism Mart (ITM), tentatively scheduled for October 28 to 31. The district administration held a coordination meeting on Friday, chaired by Deputy Commissioner Namgyal Angmo, to discuss arrangements including transport, accommodation, cleanliness, medical support, and road maintenance.

The meeting brought together additional deputy commissioner Rinchin Leta, district tourism officer Tsering Deki, representatives from taxi and tour operators, and other stakeholders. Detailed discussions were held on the proposed itinerary for ITM delegates and their visits to major tourist destinations in and around Tawang. Presenting the tentative programme, Deki noted a significant increase in tourist arrivals and thanked both the union tourism ministry and the state government for selecting Tawang as the venue for the prestigious event. She emphasized, "Hosting the mart would provide an important opportunity to showcase Tawang's tourism potential, cultural heritage, natural beauty, and hospitality before a wider audience," while urging active cooperation from all stakeholders.

Angmo stressed that, although there was adequate time for preparations, all departments and stakeholders should begin working in close coordination immediately. She recalled, "The earlier ITM conducted in Tawang was very successful. This time too, we need to be even more prepared and work collectively to make the event a grand success." Special emphasis was placed on cleanliness and responsible tourism, and Angmo discussed with tour and taxi operators strategies for managing plastic and other waste at tourist destinations. She highlighted the need for collective efforts to keep tourist spots clean and environmentally sustainable.

Tour and taxi operators requested urgent repairs to the approach road to Pangateng Tso (PT Tso), citing its importance as a major tourist attraction. The meeting also addressed the need for reliable transportation, suitable accommodation, adequate medical backup, effective traffic management, protocol, and maintenance of township roads, along with coordination with the Army, paramilitary forces, and other agencies. Given Tawang's high altitude, participants discussed providing portable oxygen cylinders in hotels and taxis to ensure visitor safety.

During the open discussion, stakeholders offered suggestions and raised issues requiring advance attention, with the district administration assuring them of timely examination and coordination with relevant departments and agencies. The meeting concluded with a call for timely preparations and close cooperation to ensure the successful conduct of the International Tourism Mart and further strengthen Tawang's image as a clean, safe, and hospitable tourism destination.

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