Kathmandu, January 21:

Even as the Nepal Association of Tour Operators welcomed the promulgation of the interim constitution and legislature, it has expressed serious concern at the increasing instances of strikes and demonstrations that tends to bring the country to a standstill every now and then.

In a press statement, NATO said ‘these instances of unexpected demonstrations and strikes called for minor problems will have a deep-rooted negative effect on Nepali tourism industry’. In the last two months, tourists have found it difficult to move around within and outside the valley due to frequent bandhs which seem to have aggravated after the restoration of the peace in the country, it said.

All efforts of tourism entrepreneurs to attract tourists to Nepal and improve the economy has been proved futile due to the lack of support and irresponsibility of a handful of people. The tour operators’ association has appealed to the government and the ministry of culture, tourism and civil aviation to take immediate steps to address this mounting problem of bandhs and chakkajams.

“We also appeal to political parties, civil society and individuals to join hands with the tourism entrepreneurs and assist them in their efforts to promote Nepal as a safe tourist destination.”