SOPs to streamline spa operations in Himachal soon: Minister

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Shimla, March 24

The Himachal Pradesh government will soon formulate Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to streamline and monitor spa operations in the state, Industry Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan said on Monday.

Replying to a question from Congress MLA from Manali Bhuvneshwar Gaur in the assembly, the minister said the SOPs will be formulated by the health department in coordination with the ayurveda department.

Spas operating in major hotels obtain necessary permissions from the tourism department, Chauhan said.

The chief minister has ordered the formulation of a policy to curb any illegal or unethical practices, he said, adding that law enforcement agencies are empowered to take action wherever violations are detected.

Gaur expressed concern over the increasing number of spas in Manali, a key tourist destination, and unregistered establishments, alleging illegal activities.

He alleged that many spas were operating without registration and some had become hubs of immoral activities, adversely impacting the social environment.

Separately, Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri, who holds the transport portfolio, said the government will not roll back charges for the Him Bus Card, which is mandatory for availing concessional and free travel in Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) buses.

He indicated that the government is examining the possibility of extending concessions to students studying in government schools.

Agnihotri was replying to a question from BJP MLA from Dharamsala Sudhir Sharma.