'Caravan Tourism' | 21 Jul 2023

Why in News?

According to the information given by the Chhattisgarh Public Relations Department on July 20, 2023, the tax rate has been fixed for separate registration of motor Caravans with the aim of encouraging caravan trains to promote the tourism industry in Chhattisgarh. Under this, a 10 percent tax will have to be paid for the registration of the caravan vehicle.

Key Points:

• It is noteworthy that keeping in mind the convenience of the public, new steps are being taken by the Transport Department under the guidance of Transport Minister Mohammad Akbar as per the intention of Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel. In this episode, the state government is planning to promote 'Caravan Tourism' on rivers, mountain ranges, hill stations, forests and heritage sites.
• The concept of caravan tourism has gained immense popularity across the world. Under this policy, recreational vehicles, tourist vans or motor homes will be permitted in places where permanent construction is prohibited and where hotels and resorts are rare.
• Its objective is to provide safe travel and encourage tour operators. This will allow tourists to enjoy the natural beauty and other attractions of the state and will also generate local employment opportunities in the tourism sector.
• What is a Motor Caravan?
• Caravan is a type of passenger vehicle, which is used for a special purpose. This vehicle has seating and sleeping arrangements. As well as having a table and kitchen, many vehicles also have a bathroom. In a way, a motor caravan is like a mobile hotel or home.
• To make a caravan vehicle, a new vehicle or just a chassis can be bought and converted into a caravan vehicle from a registered bodybuilder or an old vehicle can also be modified into a caravan vehicle, but the old vehicle should not be more than three years old to make a caravan vehicle.
• This tourist circuit also promotes family-oriented tourism in destinations that do not have adequate hotel accommodations.
• Motor caravans can be used for travel, leisure and accommodation purposes. Motor caravans are also widely used for adventure tourism.
• Chhattisgarh has a vast land area and landscape, which will add a new dimension to motor caravan tourism. Presently the demand for eco, wildlife, pilgrimage tourism etc. is increasing. This includes going and living in remote areas, forests and rivers.
• There is already a shortage of accommodation at tourist destinations, especially in remote areas and in some places where permanent construction may be neither acceptable nor possible. In such a scenario, Caravan Tourism can effectively meet the growing demand, while ensuring it adheres to quality, standards and safety norms.
• There is no doubt that Caravan Tourism will appeal to a wide range of market segments including youth, families, senior citizens and international tourists.