Hotel operators in Tulsipur have demanded permission to keep their businesses open until 11 PM. They argue that, following the COVID-19 pandemic, the hotel industry has been severely affected and is struggling to recover. Extending operating hours until 11 PM would help ease the pressure on their businesses.
“Business has come to a standstill everywhere after COVID-19, and hotel operators are only beginning to see a slight recovery,” said Tufan KC, the owner of Kumakh Café. “During such challenging times, the perspective towards hotels should be more positive.”
Despite receiving a letter from the District Administration Office allowing hotel operations until 11 PM, the police have been enforcing closures at 9 PM, which has further burdened hotel operators, according to KC. “The police are forcing us to close at 9 PM, and this is causing us a lot of trouble,” he added.
KC also highlighted the need to consider the convenience of travelers arriving late at night. He stated that if hotels were allowed to operate until 11 or 12 PM, it would be more convenient for business owners. He urged local authorities to focus on providing proper lodging and dining facilities for visitors coming from outside.
Vinil KC, the president of the Tulsipur Chamber of Commerce and Industry, clarified that there was no official decision to close hotels at 9 PM. Anil Thakuri, Deputy Superintendent of Police at the Tulsipur Area Police Office, confirmed that only liquor shops were ordered to close by 9 PM. “We haven’t imposed any restrictions on properly operated hotels,” Thakuri said. “We are only closing bars that operate late into the night.” He added that this measure was taken to prevent potential criminal activities during festivals.
Chief District Officer of Dang, Krishna Prasad Lamsal, stated that while no specific decision has been made about hotel operating hours, local authorities can decide based on security considerations. “We haven’t made a separate decision on the matter yet, but local administration can act as needed,” Lamsal said. He also noted that there are over 500 hotel operators in Tulsipur.
Hotel operators in Tulsipur are now calling for clear guidelines from authorities to allow them to operate later, which they believe will support their businesses’ recovery post-pandemic.
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