Patna, Dec. 9: A debate over beautification of hot-water springs (kunds) in Sasaram division in the Assembly forced chief minister to intervene in the matter with a counter question.

During the Assembly proceedings, JD(U) MLA Rajeshwar Raj from Karakat seat in Rohtas asked tourism minister Sunil Kumar ‘Pintu’ regarding beautification of three hot-water springs in Sasaram sub-division. Raj said: “Lakhs of tourists are facing problem owing to ignorance of tourism department regarding three hot-water springs — Manjhar, Sita and Dhuaa. No work has been done to beautify and develop the place.”

On this, Nitish rose from his seat and asked the member to cross-check his information. “Usually a hot-water spring rises from the ground. This is the first time I am hearing it flows from upper climes. I would suggest you to pay a visit to the place and kindly inform us so that even we can visit. If it is true, development work would be carried out.”

The chief minister’s remark was received with loud applause in the House.

Earlier, replying to the MLA’s query, the tourism minister had said: “I have sought a report from Rohtas district magistrate in this matter twice but so far he has not submitted any.” The MLA said: “During the last budget session, I asked the same question and the minister had given me the same reply. What is the guarantee that he will look into the matter? If the officer is not listening to the minister’s order, then why is he not taking action against him? After all, he has failed to deliver the report twice.” The MLA then defined the hot-water spring looking at the Speaker. “Sir, the hot water flows from the mountains and a huge number of tourists visit the streams everyday.”

Speaking outside the House, Pintu said: “Yesterday, I had asked the district magistrate to submit a report on whether it could be developed as a tourist spot or not.”