Sri Vijaya Puram, May 07: A delegation from the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), led by its President Mr. M. Vinod, met the Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Admiral D. K. Joshi (Retd.), at Raj Niwas to discuss key matters concerning the sustainable development of tourism in the islands.
The delegation included Mr. K. Hamza (General Secretary), Mr. P. S. Vijayan (Organising Secretary), and Mr. Saikat Biswas (Joint Secretary). The team formally requested the formation of a Tourism Advisory Committee comprising local stakeholders and representatives from relevant departments. The committee is envisioned as a consultative body to provide regular inputs on tourism policies, infrastructure development, safety regulations, and promotional strategies.
The delegation also requested the revival of international air connectivity, especially the reinstatement of the Kuala Lumpur–Port Blair route, which was earlier operated by AirAsia. The team emphasized the need to convene a meeting with airline operators and civil aviation authorities to explore new international connections and strengthen inbound tourism potential.
The Lieutenant Governor appreciated the suggestions and directed his office to take up the issues raised with the Concerned departments for necessary action. AATO expressed its commitment to working hand-in-hand with the Administration in shaping a vibrant, safe, and globally connected tourism future for the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
