Friday, October 14, 2022
Russia’s war with Ukraine and problems faced by British tourists regarding getting visas have spoiled the charter tourism season of Goa, which brings several thousands of visitors to the state from Europe.
S V T Dhanamjaya Rao, the director of Goa airport said that Russian Azur Airlines, which was supposed to bring in tourists to the state from Tuesday, has annulled all its flights. They booked about 13 openings for October.
Thousands of British travelers have postponed their tours to India due to a last-minute change of rule, which necessitates them to be present personally for tourist visas. London’s Indian high commission has, however, maintained that there have been no changes to the visa procedures.
Nilesh Shah, the President of the Travel and Tourism Association of Goa said that nearly 40,000 to 50,000 tourists from the UK visit Goa yearly and the number is expected to drop radically. He said that this is the challenge that they need to handle appropriately.
Shah said that they have made a demonstration. They made a representation last year too. There are certain bilateral problems.
The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) have urged the state government to utilize its good offices and resolve the issue.
Tags: goa tourism
