Tourists Once Tested for COVID-19 at the Airport Need Not be Tested While Boarding Boats: Anchipaka

Port Blair, Nov. 10: The Deputy Commissioner (South Andaman), Shri Suneel Anchipaka, IAS, today visited VSI Airport along with Superintendent of Police (SA) and had deliberated with the Airport Authority/CISF and Airline Operators in view of the opening up of tourism sector.

During the deliberation, it was emphasized that keeping in view of the increase in the foot fall due to recent opening of tourism related activities in A&N Islands by the A&N Administration, the District Administration with the co-operation of stakeholders has decided to facilitate all the incoming passengers/tourists by following COVID-19 protocol. Police and CISF will work in coordination with the assistance of Airport Authority for ensuring strict compliance of social distancing norms and other COVID-19 protocols. 

It was also decided that Airline Operators shall provide helpers near luggage collection area to avoid gathering. Inflight announcement shall be made for disseminating information related to testing procedures at the airport. DC (SA) informed the stakeholders that tourists who were tested at the airport shall not be asked for re-testing while availing boat/ship for travelling to Swaraj Dweep/Shaheed Dweep. It was emphasized to avoid overcrowding and to maintain social distancing while checking out from the airport.

The DC (SA) has ensured full support of District Administration and to enhance testing facility at the arrival area of the VSI Airport as on when the need arises.