Darjeeling: The GTA is preparing to revive Jamuni, a scenic but long-neglected tourist destination about 15 km from Darjeeling, by inviting private investors to breathe new life into the area and position it as a sustainable tourism hub.
Once envisioned as a major leisure destination, Jamuni's development suffered repeated setbacks due to fund constraints, lack of resources, political unrest and the pandemic. The tourist complex was opened back in March 2020 but operations were soon suspended as the pandemic struck.
GTA chief Anit Thapa said the deteriorating condition of the site compelled the administration to look beyond govt funding to restore Jamuni's tourism potential. "We are now looking to rope in private investors who can professionally manage and maintain the spot. This will ensure better facilities for tourists and generate revenue without burdening the govt exchequer," Thapa said, adding discussions with some private entities were underway.
Asked about the prolonged neglect of the destination, Thapa said, "Nothing can be done overnight. But we are committed to seeing it through," he said.