Sri Vijaya Puram, May 30: Concerns over fuel accessibility and its impact on tourism operations dominated a stakeholder consultation on fuel retail services, where the Andaman Association of Tour Operators (AATO) called for a series of reforms aimed at ensuring uninterrupted tourism activities across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
The proposals were presented during a stakeholder consultation meeting convened by ANIIDCO at Vikas Bhawan. Representatives of the tourism industry highlighted operational challenges faced by tourism service providers and urged authorities to adopt measures that would improve fuel availability, safety and efficiency for tourism-related transport services.
Representing AATO, President M. Vinod and General Secretary Saikat Biswas participated in the consultation and placed several recommendations before the authorities. The association emphasized that reliable access to fuel remains essential for sustaining tourism operations, particularly in an island destination where transport services play a central role in visitor movement and tourism activities.
One of the principal demands raised by the association was the introduction of a Fuel-on-Wheels service for tourist boats, sport fishing vessels and water sports operators. According to AATO, smaller tourism vessels currently face difficulties in obtaining fuel and are often compelled to transport fuel in cans due to the absence of dedicated delivery facilities. The association argued that such practices raise safety and compliance concerns.
To address the issue, AATO proposed doorstep fuel delivery services at key tourism hubs and jetties, including Rajiv Gandhi Water Sports Complex, Junglighat, Chatham, Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep. The association stated that such a system would improve operational efficiency while enhancing safety standards for tourism operators.
The association also sought the introduction of a prepaid fuel indent mechanism for recognised tour operators. In addition, it requested the extension of petrol pump operating hours up to 10 pm in Swaraj Dweep and Shaheed Dweep to better accommodate tourism-related transport requirements.
Among other suggestions, AATO recommended the installation of smart vending machines at fuel stations and improvements in washroom facilities to enhance convenience for tourists as well as local residents using fuel retail outlets.
The association further urged ANIIDCO to earmark a portion of available fuel stocks for registered tourist vehicles, tourism boats and water sports operators during periods of fuel shortage. According to AATO, such a measure would help prevent disruptions to tourism services and reduce inconvenience to visitors.
During the meeting, M. Vinod highlighted the importance of a dependable fuel supply network in supporting the tourism economy, while Saikat Biswas outlined practical interventions aimed at improving safety, operational efficiency and visitor experience.
The association thanked ANIIDCO for facilitating stakeholder participation and expressed hope that the recommendations would receive favourable consideration in the interest of tourism development and economic growth in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
