According to a press statement, addressing the third Annual General Meeting of Pashchimanchal Hotel Association, Pokhara(PHA), president of Hotel Association of Nepal (HAN) Shyam Sundar Lal Kakshpati said the government´s lackadaisical approach was obstructing infrastructural development. [break]
“Tourism industry is passing through a pathetic condition as nothing praise worthy has happened so far,” he said lack of CEO in Nepal Tourism Board has completely halted international promotional programs. He further expressed serious concern over possible impact on the upcoming tourist arrivals.
NTB has remained without chief after the term of fomer CEO Prachanda Man Shrestha expired more than a year ago. The hoteliers through HAN have already submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister´s Office requesting timely appointment of NTB chief.
Outgoing president of PHAP Biplav Paudel said the major challenge for tourism industry was political instability, frequent strikes and bandas. The association had organized campaigns like “Let´s go Pokhara”, “Pokhara, Pure and Perfect” in a bid to promote tourism in Pokhara.
Tika Ram Sapkota, board member of NTB said the process of CEO selection had been halted following disagreement among its board members. “We are hopeful the process will resume soon,” he said.
Hoteliers at the meeting expressed the need for construction of a regional international airport in Pokhara for better air connectivity. They said the increasing load shedding was adding to the operating cost. The meeting will elect new executive committee for PHAP for next two years.
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