By IANS,
Chandigarh : Chandigarh launched city cards Saturday, by which tourists will be able to avail various facilities and discounts in the city. The city celebrated World Tourism Day by also launching the tourism police, organising picnics, and an international food festival.
The city cards were launched by S.F. Rodrigues, administrator of Chandigarh.
He also presented the city cards to foreign tourists who were present during the launch.
The city cards will cost Rs.100 each and will be valid for one person for three days from the date of purchase.
It will entitle the card-holder to avail various discounts at the city’s tourist destinations and at select hotels, restaurants and shops.
Besides, the launch of the tourism police, underprivileged children were given free rides in the open-air buses, a picnic was organised for senior citizens, and an international food festival was held to mark the World Tourism Day in Chandigarh.
For the safety and convenience of the residents and tourists coming to the city, tourism police squad with a strength of 100 was launched here.
Chandigarh Inspector General of Police S.K. Jain launched the tourism police squad at Sukhna Lake.
“The police personnel under this squad will help tourists and visitors in the city. They will guide the tourists about local law and order, security measures, places of medical help, on matters relating to passport, visas, residential permits, exchange of currency and on immigration issues,” said Vivek Atray, director of tourism.
Passengers at airport and railway station were given a special welcome, which was accompanied by a musical programme.
A two-day international food festival started Saturday at a local hotel offering the cuisines of various countries at discounted rates.
Special discounts were offered at various city hotels and restaurants. A vintage car exhibition was also organised at Lake Club.