PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE /Dehradun
The Dehradun district magistrate Savin Bansal on Wednesday ordered cancellation of 17 homestays licenses in the first phase of Operation Safai. These homestays were found violating rules and action was taken after complaints were received about illegal activities at several properties. Bansal formed five magisterial teams, which carried out inspections in Sahaspur and Raipur areas.
Several recent incidents of crime, drunk driving and over-speeding were linked to some homestays where illegal late-night bar operations, loud DJ music and unlawful gatherings were allegedly taking place.
Bansal said that the original purpose of the homestay scheme was to promote local culture, traditional food and increase the income of local residents. However, during inspections, many homestays were found being run like hotels or commercial establishments, creating disorder and affecting law and order
During the inspections, many homestays were found without kitchen facilities, fire safety equipment and valid licences. In several cases, owners were not living there and the properties were being operated on rent or lease. Some homestays also failed to provide details of foreign guests as required by law.
At one homestay in Niranjanpur, information regarding the foreign guests was not submitted as per rules and also the fire safety validity had expired. In Ballupur, more rooms than approved were found in operation. In Mussoorie, one homestay has been sold while another has not renewed its registration.
Bansal directed all homestay operators in the district to strictly follow the rules, adding that inspection drives would continue and strict action would be taken against any future irregularities
