As the Union Budget approaches, tourism stakeholders in Siliguri are urging the Centre to recognise the city’s strategic importance as a gateway to the Northeast and extend targeted support to strengthen its tourism infrastructure.

Located in north Bengal, Siliguri serves as a vital link connecting the Eastern Himalayas with the rest of the country. The city is a major transit point for lakhs of travellers heading to popular destinations such as Darjeeling, Sikkim and several parts of the Northeastern states, apart from neighbouring Bhutan.

Given its geographic importance, industry players say Siliguri plays a crucial role in facilitating tourism and commerce across the region. However, they argue that the city has not received adequate attention in terms of infrastructure development and tourism-focused investments.

Hoteliers and tour operators in Siliguri are hoping that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will announce dedicated schemes or funding in the upcoming budget to improve connectivity,

accommodation facilities and civic infrastructure for tourists who pass through or stay in the city.

Tourism stakeholders believe that specific initiatives aimed at promoting tourism in north Bengal and the Northeastern states would not only boost visitor inflow but also reinforce Siliguri’s position as a major transit and tourism hub for the region.