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As the number of confirmed coronavirus cases in India reached 107 on Sunday, the tribal welfare department in Andamans, far away from the mainland, has taken precautionary measures to ensure the safety of tourists, residents and indigenous tribes.
Six tribes exist in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands — Great Andamanese, Jarawas, Onge, Shompen, Nicobarese and the Sentinelese. Since the latter do not have any contact with the outside world, they are at heightened risk of the deadly virus.
In an advisory issued by the Andaman and Nicobar administration, tourists have been advised to refrain from travelling to the islands from March 16 midnight.
“The Andaman and Nicobar Administration has issued directives to close all tourist spots of the islands with effect from 16 March to 26 March. All the tourists are advised to refrain from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands during the above time period,”
“All the tourism facilities such as beaches, jetties, eco-tourism sites and Water sports activities shall remain suspended. All tour operators may advice their clients accordingly,” the Andaman and Nicobar Administration said.
For residents of the Islands, all modes of transport including ships under the Directorate of Shipping Services (DSS), private vessels, administrative buses as well as private buses shall be operating at 50 per cent capacity. The modes of transport will also have ‘staggered seating’ to prevent close contact between passengers while travelling.
The islands are a favourite tourism spot for domestic and international visitors alike.
