Places like Tamasheen are rare, local elders assert as they back their claim by pointing out the heady mix the place provides for tourists. Three cascades, hot water gushing out of the ground, precarious rock structures and a mysterious caves should delight any tourist, they say adding that adventure seekers, too, can get their dose of adrenalin explored on the yet untreaded caves. Residents, disgruntled at the neglect meted out to the zone, said that until as recently as the 90s, the booming tourism here was a source of employment for local youths.

Tamasheen is accessible from Ichak in Hazaribagh via Itkhori, but this road is surrounded by forests. The presence of tiny hamlets fail to provide that sense of security to tourists, most of who have read about various incidents of robberies on this stretch of road and with no police patrolling team in sight, there are enough opportunities for criminals. At times, residents admit, villagers themselves have no choice but to pose as extremists to rob tourists for livelihood.

Another problem, villagers say, is the lack of hotels in Tamasheen. There is no way a tourist can spend a night here and, in case, someone gets stranded, he is in for trouble . Few buses ply on this route and smaller vehicles, trekkers and jeeps also stay off roads after dark.

Villagers say presence of extremists is the reason for the fal of Tamasheen, like other tourist spots in Chatra. According to them, police has failed to control extremism due to the geographical structure of the district. Surrounded by forests, hills, rivers and waterfalls, the place is a safe hideout for rebels, who warn visitors to not to venture into the area.

With roads and security, villagers believe, places like Tamasheen will attract hordes of visitors, which will, in turn, generate employment. Only if the government utilises fund to develop tourist spots, most of the problems plaguing the place will be solved.

Vishvendu Jaipuriar