Tuesday, August 10, 2021
Every time the rules concerning COVID-19 restrictions changed in Kerala, the tourism sector was severely affected. Classification of regions based on the test positivity rate changed from week to week. Only regions in the A and B categories — with fewer cases — got more relaxation. If the classification of a place changed to the more worrisome C or D categories, all tourism units in that region had to close, and tourists were sent back. The increasing numbers of negative experiences of tourists made the industry initiate the bio-bubble notion in the tourism sector.
With this concept, every person occupied in a tourist’s visit to the state will be in a bio bubble and vaccinated with at least one dose. This includes the tourists, the airport staff, cab drivers, hotel staff, and people at tourist destinations. Film shoots and sports events have adhered to the bio-bubble concept, which involves a restricted number of members who are tested, remain under quarantine, stick to all safety protocols and have no interaction with anyone else for the complete duration.
“Kerala’s tourism was badly affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. As a sector that provides direct and indirect employment to 1.5 million people, the crisis has far-reaching consequences on the state’s economy. The revenue loss in the tourism sector is estimated to a tune of Rs 33,000 crore. However, now, Kerala tourism is on a path of revival. We are opening up slowly and getting ready to welcome tourists from all around the globe. A special emphasis will be given to boost domestic tourism also,” said the Minister for Tourism PA Mohammed Riyas. The concept of bio bubble is indeed an important step in the department’s revival strategy.
Tags: kerala
