Tourist activity has resumed at Darjeeling's iconic Tiger Hill sunrise point after a tense stand-off was resolved. The United Forum of Drivers, a collective representing taxi operators from the hills, has withdrawn its indefinite ban on sunrise trips, which had been in effect since December 19.
GTA Steps In to Resolve the Conflict
The deadlock was broken following a crucial meeting convened by the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) on Wednesday. This intervention came amid rising tensions over the movement of tourist vehicles in the Darjeeling hills. The core of the dispute lay between drivers from the plains and those based in the hills.
Drivers from the plains argued that they were being unfairly restricted from conducting tours in the hill areas, despite holding valid permits. Conversely, hill-based drivers expressed strong concerns that allowing outside taxis would severely threaten their livelihood and work opportunities.
Protest Against Fees and Management
In a significant act of protest, the hill-based drivers had also refused to pay the GTA's entry fee of Rs 20 at Tiger Hill. They cited long-standing issues with traffic mismanagement and a noticeable decline in their earning potential as the reasons for their action.
Rajesh Chauhan, the deputy chairman of GTA, addressed the media after the meeting. "The drivers shared their challenges. The main agenda was Tiger Hill and the coupon system, and we have decided to continue with the old system," he stated. This indicates a temporary return to the previous operational norms to restore normalcy for tourists.
Path Forward and Future Discussions
While the immediate ban has been lifted, the underlying issues require more comprehensive discussion. Chauhan confirmed that another meeting has been scheduled for January 16 to address the broader concerns raised by all stakeholders. This upcoming dialogue aims to find a more permanent and equitable solution to the complex issue of tourist vehicle management in the region.
The resolution brings relief to the tourism industry in Darjeeling, which heavily depends on attractions like the breathtaking sunrise view from Tiger Hill. Visitors can now once again plan their early morning trips to the famous viewpoint without disruption.
