Report: Uken
Speaking to Velidhoo News a resident of Addu atoll said that the government is trying to destroy tourism. The resident said “the government will say we have tried to introduce tourism to Addu but tourists are not eager to stay there, agents are not keen on sending tourist to Addu, tourists and agents are supportive of tourism in Addu is what the government will say”. That was the sentiments of a resident on the first day after hearing the news. However many residents of Addu who talked to Velidhoo News last night said that such delays can happen. “Delays are to be expected, we appreciate the government’s effort to introduce tourism to Addu” said one resident. Tourist will arrive in Herethere in 3 weeks time said Velidhoo News’s reporter in Addu quoting Champa Afeef. Tourism Minister Dr. Shaugy said that he respects and shares the sentiments of the Adduans. “I do respect and share their sentiments, I know this has somewhat weakened their hopes, I have given assurances that I will try my best to introduce tourism there”. He also said that Maldives Tourism Development Corporation, MTDC, is working hard to introduce tourism to Addu. “I am prepared to go on the field to play, I will not come off the field even if I get many bruises until the referee shows me the red card” said Dr.Shaugy. He further said the main aim of introducing tourism to Addu was to provide gainful employment for young men and women of the atoll. Dr. Shaugy noted that already there are approximately 300 young men and women employed in the sector. Tourism Minister noted the delay in bringing tourists to Herethere is mainly to problems related to landscaping of the resort. When asked if any tour operator or agent has complained because the delay in opening of Herethere Dr. Shaugy replied so far he had not received any. 
Many appreciate the efforts of the government to introduce tourism to Addu Atoll reveals a survey conducted by Velidhoo News. However at a time when the people of Addu were preparing to welcome tourism to the atoll, the news of the tourists objections to stay at resorts in Addu have dismay for many and have even sparked angry criticism of the government.
No comments:
Post a Comment