By M Vinod

I remember the days of Tsunami in 2004. Many of the mainlanders left these islands in fear and the streets were empty. We felt that the tourism sector had lost all scope in the Islands. But gradually the situation started changing and tourists finally started visiting the islands. 

It was a ray of hope for we tour operators. In fact, it was a ray of hope for our survival. But the poor infrastructure, limited places of tourist interests were a big hurdle for the industry. 

But a dawn came to us in the form of our Hon’ble Lt. Governor, Lt. Gen. (Retd) A.K. Singh. The Hon’ble Lt. Governor within no time identified the problems being faced in the tourism sector. He gave patient hearing to the grievances of the tour operators as well as the tourists. And also he ensured timely action is initiated to solve the grievances. 

Cleanliness and beautification of tourist places took place and many unemployed youth received free training in hospitality sector. It is worth mentioning that the Islanders are really overwhelmed over the developments taking place at present. 

At this juncture, while the Hon’ble Lt. Governor is taking all pains to develop the Islands, I would like to take this opportunity to suggest opening of more tourist destinations, to bring in more luxury vessels for tourists, sea planes and amusement park etc.

Hope the Islands flourishes further under the leadership of the Honb’le Lt Governor. 

The writer is the President of Association of Tour Operators, A&N Islands.