Uncertainty over IPL eats into tour operators’ business

Uncertainty over IPL eats into tour operators' business

It's not just the cricket-crazy fans who are disappointed about the deadlock over the Indian Premier League (IPL) matches. With uncertainty looming large over the tournament, several tour operators have cancelled holiday packages designed exclusively for the matches.

Iqbal Mulla, chairperson, Treasure Tours and Travels Pvt Ltd, Andheri, said, "We don't want to take any chances. There is still some fear in the minds of the tourists post the 26/11 terror attacks. Recent statements by the government have forced us to think twice."

Mulla had been providing a security guard to each tourist group after 26/11, but has decided against it for the IPL matches. "We won't have any such offers if the government itself does not want to take the onus," added Mulla.

"The IPL was a success last year. The travel industry expected a business of Rs 1,000 crore, but made a lot more. We saw 180 tourists, but this year, we don't even expect 10," explained Mulla.

Dharmendra Gurusahani, joint treasurer, Travel Agents Federation of India and owner of Travelmartindia. com Pvt Ltd, Mahim, echoed Mulla's views. "We need time to book the hotel and airlines tickets. We also need timeu00a0 to promote our packages," said Dharmendra.

"We are getting a lot of enquiries. But due to issues of security and dates, we are yet to finalise any deal," said Anjana Desai, director, Cutting Edge Travels.

IPL package
>> Airline bookings (arrival and departure)
>> Hotel accommodation
>> Travel (pick up and drop to the stadium)
>> Booking of seats in the stadium
>> Last year's IPL package cost Rs 55,000 for three matches, but minus the air tickets