:: Dhivehi Observer :: Peoples Press ::

Maldive Tourism Industry set to recover

Editorial - 7th November 2004

Tsunami disaster was a huge blow to the tourism industry in the Maldives but as the extent of damage to the industry in the Maldives is now clearer, it is fair to claim that the industry will recover a lot quicker than other similar locations in Sri Lanka and Thailand. However, the difference is that the Maldives tourism industry is very much concentrated on the resorts rather than city hotels, unlike Sri Lanka and Thailand, so the overall impact (or reduction is bookings) to those destination would be somewhat different from what Maldives is experiencing at the moment. Reliable figures indicate that occupancy is now less than 60% and dropping. However, key operators are hopeful of a quick recovery and they expect the occupancy to reach more than 85% by end of January and things to normalise within a year.

Out of the 87 resorts in Maldives, half a dozen resorts were badly damaged but industry analysts say that more than 10 of these resorts will be in operation by end of February 2004, some even earlier and the other resorts are likely to be closed and rebuild completely with a new concept.

Last week an old man was hit by a motorbike which ended tragically with the old man needing medical attention. He was left lying on a wall for sometime before he was given any attention. Several bystanders helped the old man who had hurt his legs and was also bleeding badly. Police arrived at the scene and was more concerned about the causes of the accident than the well being of this old man. This happened minutes before the prayer for breaking the fast - the absolute rush hour.

It is very important for each and every one of us to think about these tragic incidents, learn from them and become responsible. This old man could very well be your own father or grand father or uncle. In a small society like Male' we must look after one another and be protective of one another. Although it is a great tradition to go for a round, we must also be mindful of the security of other people, especially the elderly people and the young children. Furthermore, police must also ensure that people adhere to the speed limits and that those who drive dangerously are taught a lesson so that they don't re-offend.

It is dangerous and very stupid to think that the human body will have the same kind of coordination capability when one has been fasting for hours. Food is the main source of energy and without that the functions of the brain will be substantially limited. Based on this, we all must drive or ride our bikes slowly in order to avoid misfortunes such as this. As a society, we must look after each other and act responsibly to ensure that we all live happily. Let us be mindful of others and let us be responsible.

Please drive carefully when you are on your 'round'. And, for a change, why not go for a nice walk instead of jumping on to your 'Wave' or any other machine? It will be good for your health and more relaxing too.

More than that, by parking your bike or car, you will save money and contribute that little bit to the important need to reduce air pollution in Maldives. As a show of solidarity and respect for each other, the environment and most importantly to ones self, why not stop riding the bike or car this holly month of Ramazan, especially during this rush hour.