Aurangabad, Dec 8: In a development that will please tourists and tourism professionals, district collector Sunil Chavan has announced that all the tourist destinations in the district will reopen from December 10. The collector had discussed the matter with the tourism secretary on Tuesday. As reported earlier, all tourist spots in the district were closed from March 23 against the backdrop of Covid-19 pandemic. After 257 days, the tourists and visitors will be able to enjoy watching the world-heritage sites Ellora and Ajanta Caves, Bibi-Ka-Maqbara, Panchakki, Devgiri (Daulatabad) Fort and other tourist destinations.
Giving information about this very important decision, Chavan said that there was a demand from all tourism stakeholders and tourist organisations to re-open the heritage monuments in the district. Over the past ten months, the source of employment for many, including guides, hotel operators, taxi services and tourism tour operators was cut. Under Mission Begin Again, the state government has gradually started giving permission to re-open all the businesses and establishments with proper safety measures.
Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray and the Guardian Minister Subhash Desai had suggested the district administration to decide upon re-opening of local monuments and tourist destinations. Hence, the decision has been taken after discussion and as per their suggestions.
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RT-PCR tests mandatory
Meanwhile, it will be mandatory upon the tourism related staff and guides at the tourist places to undergo RT-PCR tests.
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Monuments to be cleaned
Before reopening the heritage sites for tourists from December 10, all tourist spots will be cleaned by tomorrow, December 9 as these places were closed for the past nine months. Also, if some birds or wild animals are inside, they will have to be dealt with.
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Turnover of about Rs 500 crore lost
From March 23 to December 9, the tourism sector is said to have lost Rs 500 crore in terms of turnover. Even if we consider 10 per cent profit , the direct loss of Rs 50 crore was caused to those in the tourism business. Guides and travel agents have suffered major losses. It is hoped that the tourism sector will be revived now as it has been decided to start tourist destinations in Aurangabad district earlier compared to other tourist destinations in the state.