Policy Sparks Opposition
Chandigarh's tourism department has introduced a draft policy for Bed and Breakfast (B&B) establishments, proposing that residential properties with at least
eight rooms could be offered to tourists for affordable stays. This initiative, intended to enhance tourism by providing economical accommodation options, has encountered substantial resistance from various stakeholders. Officials from the Estate Office have voiced concerns that the policy lacks specific demarcations for permissible areas, potentially leading to infrastructural disarray and encouraging building code infringements. Complementing these worries, fire department officials have highlighted significant parking hazards and difficulties for emergency vehicle access in narrower streets during fire emergencies. The collective dissent includes objections from the urban planning department, hotels, and hospitality associations, indicating a widespread apprehension regarding the policy's feasibility and its potential adverse effects on the city's existing framework.
Past Failures & Resident Worries
The current proposal for a B&B policy in Chandigarh isn't the first attempt; a similar initiative a decade ago reportedly failed to gain traction. R K Garg, president of the Second Innings Association, views this as a repetitive effort that is likely to meet the same fate. He argues that sufficient budget-friendly accommodations already exist in commercial zones, suggesting that the administration's resources might be better allocated to more viable projects. Hitesh Puri, chairman of CRAWFED, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the critical need to address key issues such as parking, existing infrastructure capacity, and law and order before any such policy is enacted. Deepinder Singh, a former radio jockey residing in an area already populated with Paying Guest accommodations, anticipates significant parking congestion, with numerous vehicles potentially lining the streets outside multi-story homes. He also foresees potential law and order challenges, citing existing parking-related disputes in southern sectors that frequently require police intervention.
Policy Details and Safeguards
Despite the objections, a proponent of the policy, Vinod Vashisht, convener of the City Forum of Residents Welfare Organisations (CFORWO), suggests that B&Bs could be a positive development, provided owners reside on the premises. He points to the global popularity of homestays, which are prevalent in numerous countries, facilitating affordable and culturally immersive travel experiences. Vashisht recommends the administration first release a draft for public review and feedback before implementation. Under the proposed policy, prospective B&B owners must register their properties, which can offer up to eight or more rooms. Notably, the owner's physical presence isn't strictly mandated if other conditions are met. The registration involves an inspection by a committee assessing facilities, hygiene, and safety, including the provision of attached bathrooms, ventilation, and adequate parking. Registered B&Bs would be exempt from separate lodging licenses and would retain their residential status for utilities and property tax. Strict obligations for owners include guest registration, regular reporting to authorities, staff verification, and maintaining cleanliness. However, commercial activities like travel services or dine-in facilities for non-guests are prohibited, as are actions that disrupt neighbors.
Guest Responsibilities and Penalties
The draft policy also outlines responsibilities for guests staying in registered Bed and Breakfast establishments. Guests are required to provide accurate identification, maintain appropriate conduct, and avoid causing disturbances or allowing unauthorized overnight stays. Any damages incurred by guests will be their responsibility to compensate for. To address potential issues, a grievance redressal mechanism is established, allowing guests to file complaints regarding misrepresentation or unfulfilled services. The authorities possess the power to revoke registrations and remove establishments from official listings for policy violations. Significant penalties are stipulated for non-compliance, including fines ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000 and potential registration cancellation for owners providing false information or failing to deliver promised services. Offences under this policy are categorized as cognizable, enabling prompt enforcement actions. Furthermore, an appellate process is available for aggrieved owners to challenge decisions within a 30-day period.
