North Sumatra Governor to Build Two New Access Roads to Karo Hot Springs

Medan (ANTARA) - North Sumatra Governor Bobby Nasution will build two new access roads to the Sidebuk Debuk hot springs tourism area in Semangat Gunung Village, Karo Regency, North Sumatra. Bobby said this step is part of efforts to improve the quality and competitiveness of North Sumatra’s leading tourist destinations, following the elimination of various levies on visitors. “We have committed to no more charges for visitors. This is the first step in elevating our tourism assets, and easier access is also very important,” Bobby said after receiving Karo Regent Antonius Ginting at the Governor’s Office in Medan on Monday. In addition to improving new road access, Bobby also encouraged the Karo Regency Government to establish a tourism village at the Sidebuk Debuk hot springs location. This tourism village is expected to become a centre of economic activity through the development of souvenir centres, food vendor areas, and various other supporting businesses managed by the local community. “We can perhaps utilise CSR (corporate social responsibility) funds from business operators there. Several business operators can pool CSR funds to build a tourism village, and the community will manage it,” Bobby said. Karo Regent Antonius Ginting explained that the two new access roads to be built will not only facilitate access to the Sidebuk Debuk hot springs tourism area. “But will also help ease traffic congestion in the Berastagi area and its surroundings ahead of weekends and national holidays,” Antonius explained. The Regent detailed that the first route connects Penatapan Berastagi with Semangat Gunung Village, while the second route connects Jaranguda Berastagi with Semangat Gunung Village. “So those from Medan can go directly to the location without having to go through Daulu first. Those from Simalungun and Southeast Aceh can go via Jaranguda. This also helps break up traffic congestion,” he stressed. He also explained that the future levy scheme will be charged directly to business operators through taxes on restaurants, accommodation, bathing areas, parking, and other businesses. “The levies will come from there. Then our community will work there, such as parking attendants, levy collectors, cleaners, and others. We will shift them to professional jobs,” Antonius said.