Recent political unrest in Bangladesh has led to a dramatic 90% reduction in outbound travel, according to officials from the Travel Operators Association of Bangladesh, as reported by the Economic Times. The situation escalated approximately two weeks ago when Former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina stepped down and left the country amid rising student protests. This political upheaval caused temporary flight cancellations and a suspension of all visas except those issued for medical purposes.

Although flights have resumed, a representative from a budget airline serving Dhaka revealed that passenger numbers have dropped by more than 50%, as highlighted in the report.

Md Taslim Amin Shovon, Director of the Tour Operators Association of Bangladesh, emphasized the importance of India as a key destination for Bangladeshi travelers. “India accounts for 40-45% of our outbound travel market, with the majority—over 80%—visiting for medical treatment. Shopping accounts for 15% and leisure 5% of these trips. Kolkata remains a popular shopping destination, especially before festivals, while Sikkim, Northeast India, and Kashmir are also favored," Shovon said, as noted in the report.

Despite a 43.5% increase in tourist arrivals to India in 2023, the figures remain 15.5% below pre-pandemic levels. India welcomed 9.23 million visitors last year, generating Rs 24,707 crore in foreign exchange. Visitors from Bangladesh represented the largest share, comprising over 22.5% of the total, the report stated.

Debjit Dutta, Chairman of the Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) West Bengal Chapter, pointed out that travel between Bangladesh and India has nearly come to a standstill since the crisis began. “The government has halted visa issuance, with only those needing medical attention granted entry. This has led to a nearly 90% decline in business for travel operators, hotels, and guesthouses near hospitals in West Bengal,” Dutta said, according to the report.

BOB Post