Bandarban administration issued a district-wide directive to shut down all hotels, motels, and tourist centres, which is not boding well for the tourism industry in the district.
As a result, small and big businesses relying on tourists are incurring a loss of approximately Tk4 crore daily, according to sources.
More and more locals are expected to be out of jobs, as all businesses and trade in Bandarban is highly dependent on tourism.
People and businesses relying on tourists to earn money are passing idle times. Unable to make sales, these businesses are facing difficulties making payments as dues slowly pile up.
On a recent visit, this correspondent, found Meghla, Nilachal, Chimbuk, Shorno Mandir, Boga Lake, Keokradong, Nafakhum, Tinap Saitar, and Boro Modok, to be void of tourists. The businesses that have been set up for tourists, including transport and local guide services are also out of work.
However, the authorities concerned are hopeful they can recover from their losses, if the coronavirus situation improves and the tourists centres are once again opened up for visits.
Bandarban Hotel Owners’ Association General Secretary Md Sirajul Islam said: “Once the coronavirus situation improves and all travel and gathering restrictions are lifted, we can have a sit down with all business owners to figure out how to recuperate from our losses.”
