The pandemic has hit multiple bitter notes so far. The tourism industry in our country, especially, was trying to stay afloat. But, it kept getting harder. There was little hope for recovery, and so many livelihoods are at stake. Did you know that around 21.5 million people lost their jobs in the last three waves of COVID-19? Tourist visits in India were down by 93% during the first wave, 79% in the second wave, and 64% during the third wave. According to a new study, about 14.5 million people lost jobs during the first wave, 5.2 million lost jobs in the second wave and 1.8 million people lost their jobs in the third wave.
90% People In Karnataka’s Tourism Sector Lost Their Jobs
Karnataka’s Tourism Minister CT Ravi said that about 30 lakh people employed in the state’s tourism industry have lost their livelihoods. As per a report by Deccan Herald, 90% people engaged in the industry have been rendered jobless. However, there is hope for revival. “These are temporary job losses. Once the industry recovers, they will be able to secure their jobs back,” the minister stated.
Also Read: Karnataka Launches ‘Luxury Caravan’ Tourism
Long Road To Recovery For Hotels In Karnataka
As tourists continue to remain apprehensive, hotels are largely unoccupied. Which is why, it’s a long road to recovery for them. Ravi said that the “KSTDC and private hotels have seen only 10 percent improvement in their revenues.” According to Deccan Herald, he also said that the industry mostly runs on private players. The government’s revenue share in tourism is quite limited. Meanwhile, Jungle Lodges & Resorts, which falls under Karanataka’s tourism department has also faced a massive loss of ₹1.5 crores to ₹ 2 crore.
Also Read: CT Cares Ep 18: Preferred Hotels And Resorts Launching Local Campaign To Encourage Domestic Demand
India’s Tourism Industry Battles It Out
With the pandemic not quietening any time soon, India’s tourism industry is battling it out. Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Ladakh: all the tourism hot spots in the country are facing its rage. The United Nations had already estimated that international tourist traffic will go down by 58-78%. Which means that now is the perfect time to support the locals. Now is the perfect time to start over with sustainable tourism. On that note, we bring to you a few ways that will help revive India’s tourism.