With curbs put in place due to Covid-19 affecting tourism in the state, the State’s Tourism minister Satpal Maharaj has said that the department is in talks with officials concerned to provide some relaxations.
For new year’s eve, Uttarakhand is a favoured destination for tourists from across India and abroad. Places like Mussoorie, Dehradun, Rishikesh and other locations generally remain full around this time of the year. This year, however due to the pandemic and the guidelines restricting parties have affected the tourism industry at large.
Showing his concern, the Tourism minister said, “We are in talks with the officials to provide some relaxations to the stakeholders for new year celebrations since the current curbs are affecting the tourism industry. However, we are not compromising on anything related to the pandemic. It is very important that all the stakeholders and tourists arriving in the state to celebrate observe necessary precautions and follow the Covid guidelines with utmost priority.”
Tourism secretary Dilip Jawalkar said, “Relaxations in the current guidelines will definitely be helpful for the tourism industry. However, we have to be certain that tourists coming to the state strictly follow all precautions and take necessary safety measures.”
Commenting on the same, president of the Hotel and Restaurant Association, Sandeep Sahani said, “We have received good pre booking for new year celebrations but due to the new guidelines we are on the verge of losing profit. We hope that the state government will support us by giving some relaxation. This will not only help us but will also make sure that people enjoy their new year in a safe and protective environment .”
Owner of a hotel in Rishikesh, Kuldeep said, “We understand that the government has taken this step to prevent the spread of Covid-19. I believe that some relaxation will cause no harm to anyone and everyone is aware to not act casually amid pandemic.”
Sunday, 27 December 2020 | PNS | Dehradun
