The hill station of Tikjda, located in the east of Bouira, was overwhelmed by hundreds of tourists and visitors from various provinces across Algeria over the weekend. The surge in visitors was particularly notable given the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, with many seeking a break from their daily routines. Tikjda, situated over 1,400 meters above sea level, offers a unique and picturesque getaway.
The influx of visitors began on Thursday, with numbers swelling on Friday morning. Vehicles registered in various provinces, including Algiers, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Boumerdes, Bejaia, and M'Sila, were seen making their way to the station, with many parking near Tighzert. The large number of vehicles caused traffic congestion on the national road leading to Tikjda, forcing some motorists to continue their journey on foot to the Centre National de Sport et de Loisir (CNSLT).
Despite the chilly weather and limited amenities outside the CNSLT, visitors were undeterred, drawn by the station's breathtaking natural beauty. The CNSLT, with a capacity for 460 beds, was operating at 50% capacity due to COVID-19 health protocols. According to Mohamed-Ameziane Belkacemi, the CNSLT's communications officer, families were being accommodated with prior reservations, and meals were being served in rooms to minimize contact.
Outside the CNSLT, a lively atmosphere prevailed, with families and children enjoying the scenery and activities such as hiking, picnics, and barbecues. Many visitors, including Nassim from Algiers, expressed their delight at discovering the station's beauty, with some visiting for the first time. The ambiance was characterized by a sense of joy and camaraderie among the visitors.
The weekend saw a significant influx of visitors to Tikjda, with many attributing the surge to the stress and confinement caused by the pandemic. Massinissa, a young resident of Bouira, suggested that the station's popularity was a welcome respite from the crisis. The mass visitation highlighted the importance of promoting Tikjda and similar tourist destinations to capitalize on their economic and tourism potential.
However, visitors and locals alike emphasized the need for improved infrastructure and services to support the station's growth. Suggestions included the creation of secure parking facilities, rehabilitation of the ski lifts, development of a ski station, and establishment of picnic areas and small rest structures. These improvements would help mitigate issues such as environmental pollution and anarchic development.
As the Algerian tourism industry continues to navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic, the popularity of Tikjda and similar destinations is likely to endure. With careful planning and investment, these sites can provide a much-needed boost to local economies while showcasing Algeria's rich natural beauty. Key to this effort will be balancing visitor needs with environmental and health concerns.
Key points
- Tikjda hill station saw a significant surge in visitors over the weekend, with hundreds seeking relaxation and entertainment amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The station's limited amenities and COVID-19 health protocols were unable to deter visitors, who were drawn by the site's natural beauty and recreational opportunities.
- Locals and visitors are calling for improved infrastructure and services to support the station's growth and mitigate environmental concerns.
