Since the last 24 months, the hospitality industry has suffered the most due to the pandemic induced lockdowns and restrictions. Yesterday, basis the COVID case trajectory across the nation showing a sustained downward trend, the Centre has asked States and UTs to do away with additional restrictions. This comes as a big breather for the industry and we too urge the States to remove all restrictions on hotels, restaurants and MICE venues. Across several States, 50 per cent capacity restriction is continuing to be imposed on restaurants along with restrictions on the closing timings. In many states, wedding and social gatherings have capacity restrictions and the MICE venues are under severe distress,” says Mr Pradeep Shetty, Jt. Hon. Sec., Federation of Hotel & Restaurant Associations of India (FHRAI).

“With the number of positive cases steadily tapering off, the fear in the minds of the people is gradually waning. Summer which also is the domestic travel season is right around the corner and is the next best holiday season for the hospitality industry after Christmas and New Year. This is an opportune window for the States to allow the hospitality sector to make the most of it. We appeal to all the State Chiefs to support the industry and immediately lift all kinds of restrictions imposed on hotels and restaurants,” concludes Mr Shetty.