Hotels reopen in Aurangabad after 175 days

Hotels and restaurants in different parts of the city reopened on Monday after a gap of 175 days. It may be noted that all the hotels and restaurants were shut down due to implementation of lockdown to contain Novel coronavirus. The hoteliers were waiting for the permission to start their business during unlock process.

The staff of prominent hotels located in Nirala Bazaar, Gulmandi, Nagesherwadi, Kokanwadi, Osmanpura and Aurangabad were seen busy in cleaning and santising the premises.

The hotel owners had a tough time on the first day as only 50 percent of staff returned, while others who are in their native places will come back after a few days.

Some employees’ swab sample test report is awaited, while others have to give the swab sample. Many of them preferred to go for antigen test instead of RTPCR test.

There was hustle and bustle in the hotels in Nirala Bazaar and Cannought Place. Food lovers were seen enjoying meal today. Some of them even took their selfie.

The customers were screened through thermal gun at the hotels’ entrance on the first day today. Hoteliers feel that the response of customers will be judged on their arrival on weekend days.

District collector Sunil Chavan has made RTPCR test compulsory for employees of hotels and motels. There are more than 2,500 small and big hotels and motels in the districts and the strength of beer bars and restaurants is 350.

Also, hotels will have to give entry to 50 per cent customers of their total seating arrangement. The screening of customers through thermal and availability of sanitizer is must as part of COVID measures.

A customer Shrikant Borude said that he was screened with thermal gun and oxymeter at the entrance of the hotel.

“This was the first experience at a hotel after the spread of deadly virus. Many dishes mentioned on the card were not available. Good to have a meal in the hotel after six months, ” he added.

Hotel owner Kishor Raju Shetty said that the first days turnover was just 20 percent compared to regular business.

“There was no change in price. The hotel industry will take time to return to normalcy until colleges, offices and tourism sector re-open. But I am very much positive,” he added.

Many customers preferred to ask waiters what fresh dish was available. The hotel owners removed 50 per cent chairs and tables to follow government measures.