Tarun Karthick
Campbell Bay, 25 November 2024
A viral video showcasing the interiors of a luxury caravan has taken social media by storm. The footage shot in Sri Vijaya Puram, features a high-end vehicle equipped with plush reclining chairs, an entertainment system, comfortable beds, a fully functional kitchen, and a modern washroom. The opulence on display has left many viewers captivated.
However, the video has also sparked outrage, as claims circulated on various platforms and WhatsApp groups that the vehicle belonged to the State Transport Services (STS). This assertion drew sharp criticism from residents of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, particularly in light of recent events.
The anger stems from the tragic STS bus accident at Rest Camp, which claimed four lives. Media Investigation revealed that the ill-fated bus had a canceled registration certificate and an expired fitness certificate. Critics pointed out the stark contrast between the alleged luxury caravan and the deteriorating condition of public transport, with some commenting on the hardships faced by commuters who rely on leaking and poorly maintained buses.
Amid the growing controversy, Nicobar Times conducted a fact-check to verify the claim. A prominent businessperson from the islands clarified that the luxury caravan does not belong to STS. Instead, it was imported by a private entrepreneur to promote caravan tourism in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Caravan tourism, which involves traveling in specially equipped vehicles designed for living, has the potential to transform the region’s tourism sector. With the islands’ breathtaking landscapes, travellers can enjoy unique experiences, such as sleeping by the sea to witness stunning sunsets or waking up to serene sunrises.
The introduction of the caravan is seen as a pioneering step toward diversifying the islands’ tourism offerings. “This initiative should be praised for its vision and potential to elevate the Andaman and Nicobar Islands as a premium travel destination,” remarked a local tourism expert.
The viral video, showcasing the caravan’s lavish interiors, has generated significant interest among Islanders. It remains to be seen how the concept of caravan tourism will evolve in the islands, but the vehicle’s arrival has already sparked excitement and curiosity.