Sri Vijaya Puram, Oct 05: The President of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), Mr. M. Vinod, has urged the Administration to extend the validity of existing NOCs issued for the purchase of new commercial tourist vehicles from the present validity period to one year, in view of the difficult situation being faced by the tourism industry in the Islands.
In his representation to the Secretary (Transport), A&N Administration, Mr. Vinod highlighted that high airfares, limited flight connectivity and the prevailing international situation have adversely affected tourist arrivals and the business of tourism stakeholders.
He stated that many tourism stakeholders are presently facing financial difficulties and are finding it challenging to meet existing EMIs and other commitments. Under such circumstances, purchasing additional commercial tourist vehicles has become a significant financial burden.
AATO has therefore requested that the validity of already-issued NOCs be extended by one year, enabling stakeholders to defer vehicle purchases until tourism activity improves without having to apply for a fresh NOC.
Mr. Vinod emphasised that such a relief measure would not only support tourism stakeholders during the present difficult period but would also benefit many unemployed youth whose livelihoods are directly or indirectly dependent on the tourism industry.
AATO has expressed hope that the Administration will consider the request sympathetically and take a favourable decision in the larger interest of the tourism industry and the people of the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
