Tarun Karthick
Port Blair, 30 May 2024
In a proactive move to shield tourists and local businesses from the adverse effects of travel disruptions, Kuldeep Rai Sharma, Member of Parliament for Andaman and Nicobar Islands, has proposed the introduction of an insurance policy for visiting tourists. This initiative aims to minimise the financial and logistical losses suffered by both tourists and tourism stakeholders in the event of flight or ferry cancellations.
In a detailed letter to the Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Administration, Sharma highlighted the urgent need for a robust mechanism to address the challenges posed by frequent travel disruptions. Recent incidents involving the cancellation of multiple flights between Port Blair and major cities like Kolkata and Chennai have underscored this necessity.
“The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are particularly vulnerable to natural disasters such as cyclones, earthquakes, and heavy rainfall,” Sharma wrote. “These events often result in tourists being stranded, disrupted travel plans, and significant financial hardships for both visitors and local businesses.”
Sharma referenced a previous letter on the same issue, noting that tourists often face difficulties due to altered shipping schedules, flight cancellations, room shortages, and adverse weather conditions. These challenges lead to missed flights and unexpected expenses, causing distress for visitors and damaging the reputation of the local tourism industry.
Local hotel owners and tour operators frequently bear the financial burden of these disruptions by accommodating stranded tourists at minimal profit or even free of charge. While these acts of compassion are commendable, they result in financial setbacks for the businesses involved and tarnish the Andaman Tourism brand.
To address these persistent issues, Sharma proposed the introduction of an insurance policy for tourists, developed in collaboration with private sector partners. These policies, available at a nominal cost (e.g., Rs. 100 or Rs. 200), could be offered to tourists upon their arrival.
“These insurance policies would cover unforeseen expenses arising from natural calamities, thereby safeguarding tourists, hotel owners, and tour operators from financial losses,” Sharma explained.
He emphasized that implementing such a policy would bring Andaman and Nicobar Islands in line with many foreign countries, particularly small island nations, which mandate travel insurance to protect visitors during natural disasters.
“This approach would not only provide peace of mind to tourists but also ensure the stability and resilience of our local tourism industry. By doing so, we can significantly enhance the safety and satisfaction of tourists while supporting the financial well-being of our local tourism operators,” Sharma concluded.
The proposed insurance policy aims to provide a safety net for all stakeholders in the tourism industry, enhancing the overall travel experience for visitors while promoting a sustainable and resilient tourism sector in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.