The erstwhile royal families of Gujarat met in Ahmedabad recently to convey their concern about the deteriorating condition of heritage properties in Gujarat. According to a report in DNA, heads of around eight heritage hotels met Vipul Mittra, Secretary, Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Limited (TCGL). They reiterated the need for government assistance in preserving these properties. While some of the heritage properties, including royal palaces, have been turned into hotels, others have been undergoing renovation for some time now.
Many of the royals said that in absence of massive funds for investment and reduction in number of tourists, the overall picture still remains bleak. Some of the suggestions included giving heritage hotels a one-time lump sum fund to renovate their properties. “After the one-time grant, they will fend for themselves,” said Urvashi Devi Chaudhary of Devgadh Baria in Dahod district who is currently renovating her palace. She said that the renovation of her palace has cost her more than Rs one crore yet only half of the work is done. |