Bhutan will be reopening its border gate for tourists from September 23 with a renewed focus on sustainability of the tourism industry. According to reports, the Himalayan kingdom is exploring to tap three key areas which include infrastructure and services, the travel experience of tourists and the tourism sector's environmental impact.
“COVID-19 has allowed us to reset – to rethink how the sector can be best structured and operated so that it not only benefits Bhutan economically but socially as well while keeping carbon footprints low. In the long run, our goal is to create high-value experiences for visitors, and well-paying and professional jobs for our citizens,” said Tandi Dorji, Foreign Minister of Bhutan and Chairperson of the Tourism Council of Bhutan.
After Siliguri, Jaigaon is generally called the second trading city in North Bengal. But the closure of Bhutan Gate since corona time has almost destroyed the economy of Jaigaon. Local traders have alleged that around 90 percent of the retail market in the bhutan border area has been completed.
About 60% of the shops are closed. Many traders have gone to different states because of their stomachs. Exports to Jaigaon through bhutan border have also declined. For business reasons, people from different parts of the state as well as in different parts of the country live in this city. The retail market in Jaigaon is mainly dependent on buyers from neighbouring bhutan.
"Our strategy for the revamp of the tourism sector brings us back to our roots, of 'High Value, Low Volume' tourism, where we meet the needs of tourists while protecting our people, culture, values, and environment. Tourism is a strategic and valuable national asset, one that does not only impact those working in the sector but all Bhutanese. Ensuring its sustainability is vital to safeguarding future generations," said Dorji Dhradhul, Director General, Tourism Council of Bhutan.
- Log in to post comments
