Shogran visitors decry exploitation

Accuse hotel owners of charging exorbitant rates without official categorisation

BALAKOT:

Tourists visiting the popular tourist destination of Shogran in the Kaghan Valley have reported being overcharged for hotel stays and jeep rides, with no regulation or oversight in place.

They allege that hotels without any official categorisation are charging exorbitant rates for accommodation. Even basic-level hotels are demanding between Rs7,000 to Rs10,000 per night during peak tourist season, with no check-and-balance system enforced by the local administration.

Jeep operators transporting tourists from Shogran to Siri Paye are reportedly charging arbitrary fares, as no official rates have been set. Drivers exploit the situation by demanding whatever rates they wish, taking advantage of tourists' lack of alternatives.

Additionally, if tourists stay at Siri Paye for more than an hour and a half, drivers often charge extra — beyond the agreed-upon fare — and sometimes behave rudely.

Tourists also complain that jeep drivers often collect an additional Rs500, allegedly for the Jeep Union, even though no added services are provided. The condition of the Siri Paye road is extremely poor, with no designated parking areas available.

When contacted for comment on the issues faced by tourists, Balakot Assistant Commissioner, Nader Khan, said: "If any tourists have complaints regarding Shogran, they are welcome to visit our office to register them. We will take steps to address their concerns."

When contacted for his stance on the 'unjustified' fare issue, District Traffic Police In-Charge, Anas Khan, said: "Setting fares is not within the jurisdiction of the traffic police, nor do we deal with such matters. However, if a tourist approaches us with a complaint, we will try to resolve it."

It is worth noting that the Regional Transport Authority (RTA) has no functional presence in these areas and has never set official fares for the region.