Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 05 September 2023
In the aftermath of a recent unfortunate incident at the Atlanta Point parking area in Port Blair, the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) has issued a heartfelt plea to the Andaman and Nicobar Administration, urging compensation for vehicle owners who fell victim to the recent natural calamity.
The incident, attributed to extreme winds and adverse weather conditions, witnessed a massive tree being uprooted, leading to significant damage to approximately six to seven vehicles and, sadly, resulting in injuries to one individual.
The gravity of the situation is further compounded by the fact that many of these vehicles play an integral role in the tourism industry of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. These vehicles are predominantly owned by the region’s young entrepreneurs, who often secure them with borrowed capital from banks, entailing substantial monthly EMIs. Such unforeseen events not only bring personal distress but also pose a significant threat to the employment and financial stability of these aspiring business owners.
Recognising the unpredictability of natural disasters and their potential to disrupt lives and livelihoods, the Andaman and Nicobar Administration has established provisions for compensation in such scenarios.
M Vinod, President of the Andaman Association of Tour Operators, stressed the importance of supporting these affected vehicle owners. “These young entrepreneurs have invested their dreams and resources in the tourism industry, which is vital to our islands. We firmly believe that offering them compensation is not just a financial relief but also a means to safeguard their employment and ensure they can continue contributing to our region’s economy,” he emphasised.
The Andaman Association of Tour Operators earnestly implores the Andaman and Nicobar Administration to thoroughly assess the incident and consider providing appropriate compensation to the affected vehicle owners. Such support would be invaluable in aiding those who have witnessed their vehicles suffer damage and whose livelihoods now hang in the balance due to this unexpected natural calamity.
The AATO remains hopeful that the Administration will respond compassionately to their appeal, thereby alleviating the hardships faced by these dedicated entrepreneurs and ensuring the continued growth of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands’ tourism sector.