Heavy rain is the most crucial factor affecting tourism worldwide. The tourism industry was recovering after Covid 19, however, due to heavy rain in Himachal; thousands of bookings are getting canceled recently.
Monsoon affects tourism industry in Himachal
According to the reports, Dharamshala recorded 79.4 mm of rainfall which is 58 mm more than the average rainfall. Consequently, the national highway between Dharamshala to McLeodganj has been damaged. Along with this, a major alternative Khada Danda road has also been damaged between Dharamshala to McLeodganj.
Rohit Gidwani, the owner of a travel agency, stated media reports of heavy rain in Himachal have caused fear in visitors. Earlier we had bookings of cabs and hotels, but how Dharamshala to McLeodganj highway was damaged had a major impact on visitors.
Dharamveer, a hotelier in Dharamshala said – The Monsoon season is of 90 days in India, and we have completed its halfway. This year also, the monsoon arrived on time, but we hadn't imagined it would come with a blast. We are facing this problem because of unplanned construction which is blocking water at numerous places.
He added the tourism industry in Himachal has already faced a loss for the last three years due to the pandemic. And now this heavy rain has destroyed its backbone again.
Furthermore, because of heavy rain in the hilly areas, stakeholders showed frustration because of their destitution. They are in stress because this month only 5-10% of hotels are booked in Himachal which is not a good indication.
The president of the stakeholder association announced, Tourism industry accounts for nearly 8% of the state's GDP and is the backbone of Himachal’s economy. This sector provides numerous jobs and supports thousands of families every year. Henceforth, all possible steps will be taken to bring it back on track.
Caution sign boards are put up by authorities at the damaged places. However, to date, 26 people have died, 34 are missing, and 123 are injured because of heavy rain and floods. In addition to this 7000 houses and 244 shops are damaged in the state respectively.
After this incessant rainfall, their tourism industry issued guidelines ensuring your safety. They advised the visitors to drive carefully and to keep their mobile location ON.
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