Tourists traveling from Tangmarg to Gulmarg, two popular destinations in Kashmir, have expressed concerns about the exorbitant charges for chain-ridden vehicles. This is particularly a matter of discomfort during the winter months when snow accumulates on the roads, making it necessary for vehicles to use chains for traction and safety.
The cost of hiring these vehicles, which are required to navigate snowy roads, is seen as excessively high. Tourists often have limited options and may feel compelled to pay these inflated rates due to the lack of alternative transport.
There is often a lack of regulatory oversight, which allows some operators to charge whatever they deem fit, leading to price disparity between different providers.
Prices may skyrocket during peak tourist seasons, which is when the demand for transport services increases significantly due to the snow and holiday influx.
Tourists do not have many alternatives, especially in the snowy season, when public transport may be unavailable or impractical, and the chain-ridden vehicles are the only feasible option.
To address these complaints, there could be calls for better regulation and monitoring of transport charges, especially for chain-ridden vehicles. This could involve setting maximum rates or price caps during peak seasons.
Encouraging other forms of transport, such as snowmobiles or subsidized buses, may also provide relief.
Ensuring that tourists are informed about the expected costs upfront could help avoid misunderstandings.
Addressing these issues would not only improve the tourist experience but also foster trust in the region's tourism infrastructure.