Hotels, guest houses and homestays across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been advised to maintain essential emergency first aid kits in their premises to address medical emergencies involving tourists.
The advisory was issued after authorities observed that visitors to the islands often encounter difficulties in obtaining immediate medical assistance during emergencies due to the absence of basic first aid facilities in many accommodation units.
Officials said the issue came to light following reports that tourists occasionally face delays in receiving initial treatment for minor injuries or sudden health concerns while staying in hotels and homestays. In such situations, the availability of a basic emergency kit can provide immediate assistance before professional medical care is accessed.
The hospitality sector plays a critical role in supporting tourism in the islands, with a large number of visitors relying on hotels, guest houses and homestays for accommodation during their stay. Authorities noted that ensuring basic safety and emergency preparedness in these establishments is essential for enhancing the overall tourist experience.
Under the advisory, hotel managements and operators of hospitality establishments have been asked to ensure that their accommodation units are equipped with essential first aid materials that can be used in case of medical emergencies. These kits typically include basic supplies such as antiseptics, bandages, gauze, cotton, adhesive tape and other essential items required for immediate care.
Officials explained that the measure is intended to provide prompt assistance during situations such as minor injuries, cuts, burns or sudden health discomfort until the affected individual can be taken to a medical facility.
Tourism authorities have increasingly emphasised the need for improved safety standards in hospitality establishments as visitor numbers to the islands continue to grow. Adequate emergency preparedness in accommodation facilities is considered an important component of responsible tourism management.
The advisory highlights the importance of basic preparedness in handling unforeseen situations involving guests. While most serious medical emergencies require professional treatment at hospitals or clinics, immediate first aid can often play a crucial role in stabilising the situation during the initial moments.
Authorities said the presence of emergency kits in hotels and homestays can significantly reduce response time during emergencies and help ensure the well-being of visitors until medical professionals are contacted.
The move is also expected to encourage hospitality operators to review their safety measures and strengthen preparedness for health-related incidents involving guests.
Tourism remains one of the key sectors supporting the local economy of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Ensuring that accommodation facilities maintain basic safety standards is considered important not only for visitor welfare but also for maintaining the reputation of the destination as a safe and responsible tourism hub.
Officials indicated that the advisory is intended as a precautionary measure to improve emergency readiness across hospitality establishments in the islands. Hotel operators have been urged to take necessary steps to ensure that essential first aid kits are readily available within their premises so that immediate assistance can be provided whenever required.
