NEW DELHI (TIP): India‘s Minister of Tourism Mr. K Chiranjeevi has sanctioned a special financial package of US$ 16.5 million (Rs. 1000 million) for restoration and reconstruction of the affected Government tourist facilities in Uttarakhand. This will be in addition to the Central Financial Assistance of about US$ 15.6 million already sanctioned during the current financial year for developing tourism infrastructure in the State.

Uttarakhand has recently witnessed an unprecedented natural calamity that has caused colossal damage to both life and infrastructure in the State. The State Government has been advised to assess the destroyed and damaged tourist amenities and conveniences and come back with the requirement of funds for rebuilding the infrastructure. On examination of the demand, Ministry of Tourism will sanction funds.

The funds sanctioned in the relief package will be utilized for restoration and reconstruction of tourist infrastructure across the State with a special focus on tourist facilities along yatra route which will be used for providing shelter to the disaster hit pilgrims and tourists.