A delegation from the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO), led by president M. Vinod along with general secretary K. Hamza and joint secretary Saikat Biswas, met Chief Secretary Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar today to raise multiple concerns related to tourist movement, passenger comfort, and traffic management at major jetties across the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
During the meeting, the delegation outlined several immediate issues requiring administrative intervention. These included the discontinuation of the ₹20 parking fee for tourist vehicles at the Haddo Passenger Terminal, where operators currently face challenges while picking up passengers. They also called for the provision of battery-operated carts at Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep to support senior citizens and differently-abled passengers navigating long stretches at the jetties.
AATO further requested the construction of shaded walkways at major terminals, reopening of temporarily closed passenger sheds, improvement of toilet facilities, and the availability of functional luggage trolleys at all key jetties to streamline passenger movement and reduce congestion. These, they noted, are essential for improving visitor experience, especially during peak tourist seasons.
The Chief Secretary responded positively and agreed to all the concerns raised by the delegation. He issued immediate directions to the concerned departments to address the highlighted gaps in infrastructure and service delivery. According to the officials present, the measures will be taken up on priority to enhance tourist handling systems and improve overall comfort for both visitors and residents.
Following the meeting, AATO president M. Vinod welcomed the swift response and acknowledged the Administration’s proactive approach in resolving long-pending issues affecting tourism logistics. He said the prompt action demonstrates the Administration’s commitment to creating a smooth, safe, and visitor-friendly travel environment across the islands.
AATO reiterated its commitment to collaborate closely with the Administration to strengthen tourism infrastructure, promote responsible tourism, and improve facilities that directly impact the visitor experience. The association emphasized that resolving these operational issues will contribute significantly to sustaining the islands’ reputation as a reliable and tourist-friendly destination.
The meeting is expected to expedite long-awaited improvements across multiple jetties and enhance services for a growing number of domestic and international tourists arriving in the Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
