The new resort that was opened near Gorumara on Tuesday. Picture by Biplab Basak

South Dhupjhora, Oct. 1: Foresters have sounded an alert to the mushrooming of resorts in and around Gorumara National Park, which has in the past few years emerged as the most popular tourist destination in the Dooars.

“We are concerned over the growth of resorts as forest and wildlife conservation, rather than tourism, continues to be our priority,” said P.T. Bhutia, the conservator of forests (wildlife-north Bengal) at the inauguration of Riverwood Forest Retreats.

The resort set up here — 35km from Jalpaiguri town and 500m from the forest — by Waxpol Industries Limited was opened yesterday.

“It is time to contemplate on the sustaining capacity of Gorumara, which is spread across only 85 sqkm. We don’t want it to become a destination of mass tourism.”

Data on the growth of resorts justify the foresters’ apprehension. In 1999-2000, only 7,815 tourists had visited Gorumara and there was only one resort. Eight years later till June 2008, the number of visitors was 50,554 with 31 resorts built in the area.

“Resorts should have arrangements for disposal of wastes, refrain from the use of plastic and avoid sound pollution. It is also their responsibility to convince their clients to follow the rules of the forests,” Bhutia said.

As to how much pressure Gorumara can sustain, Bhutia said his department was keeping a check on the number of tourists entering the core area by issuing a fixed number of tickets everyday. But most resorts have come up in fringe areas, which are not under the authority of the department.

“Although a recent development, the state pollution control board can now issue no-objection certificates to these resorts,” said Bhutia.

Tapas Das, the divisional forest officer (wildlife-II), reminded lodge owners their social responsibility.

“Many local youths trained by us work as guides. There are also a number of cultural troupes in the area,” he said. “Resort owners are expected to engage these people.”

Entrepreneurs of Riverwood Forest Retreats, which also runs Sunderban Tiger Camp, promised to comply with forest norms. A one-day-one-night stay in any one of the 12 rooms for one person is Rs 6,700 and for two Rs 8,150. For children in the age group of 6-12 years, the rate is Rs 2,050. The cost includes meals and pick-ups and drops from New Jalpaiguri station or Bagdogra Airport. Children below six years will not be charged for the stay.

“We have already started training our employees in practices like garbage recycling,” said Akangsha Garg, the chief executive officer of Waxpol Hotel and Tourism Division. “We have also recruited 30-odd local youths for different posts. A shop for local artisans has been set up so that they can sell their products to the visitors directly.”