Nov 13, 2020/ Shimla
In wake of the growing number of Corona cases in the district of Lahaul & Spiti, the Spiti tourism society has chosen to close the valley for guests till March 2021. The region till Thursday had recorded 608 cases, wherein lion’s share of the current ones are being accounted for from Spiti valley.
“It is with sheer regret to inform that all travelers, that Spiti valley is closed for any kind of tourism venture till March 31, 2021,” stated a message issued by the society. Adding that tourism is the area will resume only after April 2, 2021.
The unanimous decision by all the stakeholders from Spiti has been taken keeping in view the outbreak among locals in High Altitude areas. “With the onset of winters it will be impossible to contain, isolate and maintain social distancing among local population, they stated. To add to this given the limited medical supplies and services, underdeveloped infrastructure and adverse geographical conditions will only make the situation worse,” they apprehended.
They said that the choice of shutting down the valley has been a troublesome one, in light of the fact that the valley relies intensely upon the travel industry in winters. However it is a necessary step to limit the spread of COVID-19 in Spiti valley,” they added.
Pertinent to mention that residents of Spiti have been on their toes in the fight against the Virus. In July this year they had turned back the local MLA and minister from entering area HQ Kaza town without following quarantine norms. The Spiti valley with now resolved to open in April 2021, will effectively be the only area of the State which would remain isolated from outside visitors for almost a year.
