Bahuguna for clear norms about things allowed inside Taj

UP tourism minister Rita Bahuguna Joshi said here on Friday that she would talk to the Union tourism and culture minister on clear guidelines as to what could be carried and what was prohibited at the Taj Mahal.

“As far as I know there is no restriction on saffron in Taj Mahal and supermodels at Taj had taken off their saffron scarves just because of hot weather,” she said when asked about the recent saffron controversy at Taj Mahal.

“Yet, there should be clear guidelines on things allowed and prohibited at Taj Mahal. We will ensure this to avoid any further unpleasant situations,” she said.

The minister, who inspected various projects in Agra and Mathura, said both cities were among the five in the state selected for holistic development by the central government. However, she complained of slow progress in several projects.

“Mughal museum is coming up in Agra but those assigned the task are unaware about the project’s aim. Only 10% work has been undertaken for orientation centre near Taj,” said the minister who held that Tajganj project was in a better state but there too footpath were encroached and toilets were in the open and dirty.

She also talked about the Buddhist and Ramayan circuit, saying the state government was committed to growth in tourism.

Replying to a question, she expressed concern at the menace of ‘lapka’ in Agra, youngsters who surrounded the tourists at monuments to sell their goods. “The matter is in the knowledge of the chief minister and he is committed to weed out this ‘lapka’ menace within 15 days. The district officials will ensure control over lapka movement near monuments,” she said.

She also visited the state run women’s hospital in Agra and interacted with patients.

“There is no ventilator, contractual staff is paid less and more doctors are required,” she said.

The minister claimed that pro poor projects would be promoted in economically weak areas with the assistance of the World Bank. She said that special focus would be on Bundelkhand and informed that the CM’s priority was to work more on PPP model with focus on village tourism to share the benefit.

She evaded a direct reaction to the tourism policy of the previous government but said it had failed to bring investment.