Impact on Livelihoods and Occupancy Rates
Heavy rainfall between July 7 and 11 has brought devastation and fear among tourists planning to visit the mountains in Himachal Pradesh.
This has caused a significant drop in the occupancy rates of hotels in the state, leading to financial difficulties for many people who rely on tourism-related jobs.
Challenges Faced by Tourist Guides and Businesses
In popular tourist destinations like Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala, thousands of people earn their livelihoods by working as tourist guides, running hotels, restaurants, horse riding, and taxi services.
However, due to the recent situation, their businesses have come to a standstill, making it hard for them to sustain their income.
Infrastructure Issues and Responsibility
The condition of the roads, especially those managed by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), has also contributed to the decline in tourism.
Tourists face difficulties reaching the destinations due to road closures caused by rain and poor road management.
Local Businesses Suffering
Local businesses, such as taxis and hotels, have been severely impacted by the reduced number of tourists.
Many taxi drivers, who used to earn a substantial income during the tourist season, are now struggling to cover their expenses due to a lack of customers.
Losses to Tourism and Economy
The tourism industry contributes significantly to Himachal Pradesh’s GDP, around 4-6%.
This impact extends to both direct and indirect employment, supporting the livelihoods of approximately four lakh families.
Hope for the Future
Tourism businesses are hopeful for a recovery in the coming months, with expectations that tourist activity might pick up by October.
However, the recent disruption caused by the heavy rainfall and related challenges has cast uncertainty on the revival of the tourism sector.
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