Sheekha Bureau
Port Blair, Mar 05: Considering the heavy demand from the tourists as well as other dignitaries touring these islands, the Andaman & Nicobar Administration had recently decided to keep all the Tourists spots/sites/Museums open on all 362 days throughout the year including holidays except three National Holidays i.e. Republic Day (26th January), Independence Day (15th August) and Gandhi Jayanti (02nd October).
The decision came as a great relief for all the stakeholders of tourism industry, who have been demanding for the same since last many years but now it has been observed that the Forest Department has decided to overlook the decision of Andaman Nicobar Administration by keeping tourists spots like Baratang and Jolly Buoy Island closed once a week.
This was done despite clear cut orders issued by the administration.
Talking to Andaman Sheekha the President of Andaman Association of Tour Operator (AATO) Mr M Vinod has registered strong objections in this regard.
He said that when Andaman Nicobar Administration has decided to keep all the Tourists spots/sites/Museums open for 362 days how come a Department under the same Administration can take an individual decision and keep tourist spots closed for one day a week.
“This will not only cause confusions but will also bring bad name for the Andaman Tourism,” Mr. Vinod said.
He said that except Forest Department all other departments even the defence establishments are following the orders of the administration and keeping their museum open even on their off days.
He requested administration to direct the Forest Department to keep the Baratang Island and Jolly Buoy Island open every day.
Mr Vinod also expressed his gratitude towards the Lt. Governor, Chief Secretary and the entire administration for taking this bold decision of keeping all Tourists spots/sites/Museums open for 362 days.
He said if this thing actually happens on the ground this will bring good fortune for Andaman Tourism Industry.
