Unregistered hotel booking services face action

Punjab Tourism Secretary Asadullah Faiz has ordered action against unregistered online hotel booking services.

He was quoted as saying in a press release that a website operating illegally was awarding classification to hotels without any authority. He said it was illegal to classify a hotel as three or four star without any licence, which was tantamount to defaming local hotels and tourist places.

The official explained that travel agents and tour operators working through social media should get themselves registered.

People should also take precautions while booking a hotel room online and keep a check regarding its licensing and registration, he added.

He said responsible citizens should avoid illegal hotels and websites.

The provincial secretary said the process of bringing hotels and restaurants under legal ambit was progressing well. Recently, 31 hotels and restaurants had been registered, including nine hotels of Murree that had been issued licence by the deputy controller of the tourist services department.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 8^th, 2022.