Why is it such a pain in the neck to interact with any Government-sponsored service? Last week, I decided to find more information about the Gir sanctuary. Both an internet search and calling up the Tourism Corporation of Gujarat yield information that staying at the Forest Lodge called Sinh Sadan in Gir made the most sense. One apparently needed to called them up and if rooms were available. you had to fax them the details of your group. One also needed to get a permit for the jungle safaris you intended to take during the visit. I read that they only take bookings 10-12 days before the date of the visit. Anyway, I decided to call up more than 3 weeks in advance. I was told to send a fax with the details which was to cover both the accommodation and the permit. With great difficulty and the help of a colleague, the fax went through (most of the time one doesnt get a ready tone which means they might be using the line for calls). Then I called up a day later to find out if they have processed the booking. I was told that “a government group” has requisitioned the rooms for one of the days I wanted so only the next day was available Anyway, I agreed since it would be easier to take the safari from this place rather than a private hotel outside the sanctuary. Next about the permit – they asked me to call after a specified time since the person concerned was out. They also threw in a disclaimer that he might not pick the phone since he tended to be very busy. Pray tell, how does one ever get a permit then? Anyway I called at the appointed time and lo and behold, the person actually picked the phone However, my hopes were dashed as he said that since I sent the fax only the previous day, it takes 2 days or so for the fax to physically reach him, so I should call after 2-3 days. Looks like we are operating in the 19th century when telecommunications had just dawned upon mankind. With these wonderful arrangements in the so-called progressive state of Gujarat, one can imagine how it will be in other parts of the country. And you say you want to encourage tourism ?

Sameer Deans