Kathmandu.
The Society of Travel and Tour Operators (SOTTO) Nepal, an umbrella organization of tourism entrepreneurs, has stated that everyone must unite to make Nepal a safe, peaceful, and tourism-friendly destination. Issuing a press statement in response to the recent protests and subsequent incidents, SOTTO Nepal urged the government to immediately address the losses suffered by the tourism sector.

SOTTO Nepal expressed that peaceful protest and the right to raise one’s voice are constitutional rights of Nepali citizens in a democracy. Referring to the recent demonstrations called by the Gen Z generation across Kathmandu and other parts of the country, the organization expressed deep sorrow over the human casualties and damages caused by the unrest. Paying tribute to those who lost their lives, SOTTO Nepal conveyed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. The organization also thanked the government for arranging free medical treatment for the victims.

In its statement, SOTTO Nepal said:
“During the protests, government and private properties across the country were set on fire, and essential development infrastructures were destroyed. The chaos created during the movement has raised serious concerns among tourism entrepreneurs that Nepal may be perceived as an unsafe destination for tourists. Political instability has had a major negative impact on the tourism sector. Hotels and tourism-related structures were burned and damaged, placing investments worth billions of rupees at risk and severely shaking investor confidence. Thousands of workers in the hotel, transport, travel agency, and restaurant sectors face the risk of unemployment. Tourist arrivals have dropped sharply, increasing the danger of Nepal being viewed internationally as an unsafe destination. International hotel brands, resorts, and travel businesses have suffered direct losses, creating fear among major investors. As a result, not only small businesses but also the livelihoods of millions of people are indirectly in crisis.”

The statement further added:
“In the coming days, it is essential to take immediate steps to restore stability and confidence in Nepal. It is necessary to provide compensation and support to the affected families, ensure proper compensation for the families of the deceased, and offer medical assistance to the injured. While the right to protest and express opinions is guaranteed in a democracy, it is equally important to respect peaceful expression and seek political solutions through dialogue.”

SOTTO Nepal also expressed concern over the business difficulties and losses faced by tourism entrepreneurs and urged everyone to stand united and support one another during this difficult time. The organization warned that without immediate action to address the heavy losses in tourism, Nepal’s economic recovery would face serious challenges. It called on all stakeholders to work together to establish peace, stability, an investment-friendly environment, and a youth-responsive political system.

“We stand in solidarity with the affected families and are committed to making Nepal safe, peaceful, and tourism-friendly once again,” SOTTO Nepal stated in the press release