After Himachal Pradesh has withdrawn the condition of negative RTPCR report and e-Covid pass to enter the state, tourists are now seen flocking in the hill state from the plains to escape the heatwave. Lahaul among other tourist hotspots is attracting the highest numbers of tourists due to the Atal Tunnel. On July 4, according to the local data, a record number of 6400 vehicles crossed the tunnel which is the highest as of yet.
Hotel occupancy has also increased in recent days. Even though the rate is very low with 25% than the pre-covid era, the hoteliers are hopeful as the numbers pick up after a dry season in April and May.
The state is in the middle of the reopening process after the lockdown of almost 2 months that was imposed to curb the 2nd wave of Covid-19. However just as the state relaxed the conditions to enter the state, tourists are now seen coming in endless rows of cars, bringing traffic to a standstill as people from the nearby states flocked Himachal.
This situation also evoked a meme fest among the netizens and has posted numerous funny but satirical memes all over the internet. However, the question remains how safe is it yet to travel in groups without social distancing. In Himachal people are now flocking flouting all the covid norms despite warning from experts regarding a third wave. So, was the Himachal government’s decision was right to open its borders for tourists, it is yet to be seen.
