National: Siliguri, a crucial gateway to Northeast India, is experiencing a significant economic downturn due to a sharp decline in visitors from Bangladesh, as political and social unrest continues to affect the neighboring country.
Known for its tourism, education, medical services, and trade, Siliguri has traditionally attracted many Bangladeshi nationals. However, escalating tensions and instability in Bangladesh have led to a marked decrease in tourist arrivals, severely impacting local businesses.
Hotel owners in Siliguri are facing major losses, with low occupancy rates and a high number of cancellations, particularly from Bangladeshi tourists. Local bus services, especially those operating on the Siliguri-Dhaka route, are also experiencing a complete halt, with operators reporting zero passengers in recent days.
Bipin Kumar Gupta, a local hotelier, explained that the political unrest in Bangladesh has directly impacted Siliguri’s economy. Educational and medical tourism have been the hardest hit, as many Bangladeshi students and patients have canceled their travel plans.
The violence and attacks on religious minorities in Bangladesh have created a climate of fear among potential visitors. Many are now hesitant to travel, concerned for their safety and future prospects, further affecting cross-border movement.
Local bus operator Shiv Prasad Ghosh echoed these concerns, stating that buses which were once filled with passengers from Bangladesh are now empty. He urged both the Indian and Bangladeshi governments to engage in dialogue to resolve the situation and restore normalcy.
With the peak tourist season approaching, businesses in Siliguri are struggling to recover. Cancellations continue to mount as tourists from Bangladesh, who typically visit for shopping, sightseeing, and education, are avoiding travel due to the ongoing instability.
Local businesses are calling on both governments to take swift action to improve bilateral relations and bring an end to the uncertainty, which has put the region’s economy at risk.
Read More: Assam Government Approves Rs 116.20 Crore for Road Expansion to Enhance Connectivity at LGBI Airport