Gurjar agitation hits tourism industry; 50% drop in Ranthambore national park visitors

Jaipur: The Gurjar agitation for five percent reservation in the state entered its sixth day on Wednesday and the community members continued to block highways and railways. The tourism at Ranthambore – one of the biggest tiger reserves in the county – has been badly affected due to the ongoing agitation. Experts reported a drop of nearly 50% in the tourist footfall. Also, Rajasthan University has postponed its main exams until further notice in Jaipur.

According to the forest department officials at Ranthambore, the major highways and railways that lead to Ranthambore are blocked due to the ongoing Gurjar agitation. This has led to a decrease in tourist footfall at Ranthambore National park.

Several advance bookings for the hotels and Tiger Safari are being canceled by the visitors. The Tiger Safari, which used to get booked completely is barely getting visitors, said forest guides.

The Gurjar agitation is affecting tourism in the state a lot. The Railways has canceled and diverted several train routes due to the protest.

Moreover, the Rajasthan university’s administration postponed the main exam dates due to the protest until further notice on Tuesday. The main exams for BA non-college were to be conducted from February 13 to February 16 with 1.40 lakh aspiring students.

According to the sources, Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot with his team is expected to take action regarding the issue and major announcement could be made in the assembly meeting on Wednesday.

The Gurjar Aarakshan Sangarsh Committee leader Kirori Singh Bainsla with community members have refused to clear railway tracks and highways until their demands are met.

Gurjars blocked the roads of Chaksu town near Jaipur on Tuesday.