Shillong, Sep 1: The tourism and information centre of the state government in Khliehriat has no staff to help visitors.
Members of the Khliehriat unit of the Jaintia National Council (JNC) visited the office on August 31 after they received complaints from the public. They found that neither the staff nor a tourism officer was present.
The unit’s general secretary, Mebanteilang Sukhlain, said it was surprising that the staff were so irregular, especially at a time when the state government is trying to promote tourism. He also wondered whether the staff are being paid adequately and regularly.
JNC has questioned the authority for turning a blind eye to such truancy when many tourism sites in East Jaintia Hills can be promoted so that locals can earn their livelihood.
“These tourist places need more attention and support from the government to be visible or attract visitors but the irresponsible manner of the government could not provide their needs,” JNC Khliehriat said in a statement.
The organisation has appealed to the deputy commissioner, Abhilash Baranwal, to look into the matter.
“Tourism, if promoted properly, will not only benefit individuals but also help in the overall development of the district,” JNC said.
