Deprived of tourists during peak season, hotels and traders in Mussoorie continue to suffer

One of the most thriving and popular hill stations of Uttarakhand, Mussoorie, is witnessing low ebb for the first time since decades as far as tourism activities are concerned. According to the TOI, the famous Mall Road in Mussoorie, the local hotel owners and local shops have been facing financial crunch due to the absence of tourists.

Although the months from May to July are supposed to be a peak tourist season, COVID-19 pandemic has led to no tourist in sight these days on Mall Road. The local residents told TOI that it is for the first time in many years that they have seen the iconic road devoid of tourist shoppers in the month of June, which makes the Mall Road appear spooky indeed.
Apparently, the local traders selling non-essential goods have been suffering significant business losses. A local hotelier told the news daily that restaurants, hotels and shop owners are struggling to survive.

Reportedly, the hoteliers in Mussoorie have decided to reopen their business from June 18, a few local citizens feel that the government guideline which makes it mandatory for the tourists to undergo quarantine on reaching the hill station, is not right for the business owners. However, till the COVID-19 curve is flattened and the quarantine rule is removed, the local businesses in Mussoorie that survive on tourist arrivals will have to grapple with the current situation.