The Tour Operators Association of Assam (TOAA) welcomes the government’s initiative to develop 5-star hotels in the vicinity of Kaziranga National Park, spearheaded by the prestigious Taj Group and Hyatt. This landmark development is set to provide a substantial boost to Assam’s tourism industry while creating significant employment opportunities for the local community.
Mukul Medhi, President, Tour Operators Association of Assam (TOAA) said, “The construction and operation of these luxury hotels will generate over 200 direct jobs for young men and women from the local community, enhancing local livelihoods through the provision of stable employment and comprehensive skill development opportunities. The presence of globally recognized brands such as Taj Group and Hyatt in the region will also offer valuable training and career growth prospects for our youth, empowering them with skills and experiences that are respected and recognized worldwide.”
The positive impact of these hotels will extend far beyond direct employment. The local economy will experience a significant boost as a variety of businesses, including suppliers, transport services, and artisans, see increased demand for their goods and services. The influx of tourists will stimulate the growth of ancillary services such as guided tours, local crafts, and culinary experiences. This will not only enrich the visitor experience but also promote Assam’s rich cultural heritage, creating a ripple effect of economic benefits throughout the region.
Kaziranga National Park, celebrated globally for its unique biodiversity and as the home of the iconic one-horned rhinoceros, will see its status elevated as a premier international destination. The introduction of 5-star accommodations by Taj Group and Hyatt will attract high-end tourists, international travelers, and prestigious conferences. This will further establish Assam as a prime tourism hub, enhancing its global reputation and drawing increased international attention to the region’s natural and cultural treasures.
Kundal Roy, Secretary, Tour Operators Association of Assam (TOAA) said, “In addition to these developments, TOAA emphasizes the importance of enhancing wayside amenities along the 200 km stretch between Guwahati and Kaziranga National Park. Currently, the absence of quality wayside amenities makes it challenging for high-end and female tourists to find suitable facilities during their travel. We urge Taj Group and Hyatt to consider building at least two modern wayside amenities on either side of the highway at a suitable location midway. These pay-and-use facilities, managed by the local community and utilizing modern technology for transactions, would provide essential services including tea shops, eateries, memento shops, information counters, first aid facilities, baby care rooms, and more. The facilities will ensure high standards of hygiene and cleanliness, with proper upkeep supported by advanced technology. Safety and security will be prioritized through the installation of CCTVs for vigilant monitoring. Ensuring accessibility for all types of tourists, these amenities would significantly enhance the travel experience and safety for visitors.”
Furthermore, we respectfully request that Taj Group and Hyatt consider constructing a modern 30-bed hospital equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. This healthcare facility will primarily serve the local community, who currently need to travel to distant cities like Guwahati for essential medical services. It will also be available for tourists who may require healthcare services in case of any emergency. Furthermore, this facility will be of great use to the Forest Department and the foresters who work tirelessly day and night on conservation efforts, providing them with critical healthcare support close to their place of work.
The renowned Taj Group and Hyatt are known for their significant CSR activities. When implemented in Kaziranga, these initiatives will surely bring further benefits to the region. Kaziranga, being a biodiversity hotspot, has massive potential and requires support for sustainable development initiatives for Community Based Tourism (CBT) projects. TOAA looks forward to co-initiating CBT projects with these hotels in the future.
