Maharashtra govt allows hotels to reopen

The hotels industry, one of the worst impacted by the coronavirus pandemic, has heaved a sigh of relief as the Maharashtra government decided to allow them to open up.

The Hotel and Restaurant Association of Western India (HRAWI) has welcomed the state government’s decision and asked all its members to adhere to the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) as have been outlined in the guidelines specifically designed for the hospitality industry. “Hotels are completely geared up for welcoming guests, however at the moment are unsure of how many will actually check-in. The HRAWI, with members that include various restaurants and smaller hotels up to five-star deluxe categories, has said that with travel restrictions still in place and with a lot of hotel staff unavailable, the initial phase after re-opening may remain subdued,” the association said in a statement.

The association however expects only about 25 to 40 per cent of the hotels across the state to re-open in the first week which may go up to 70 per cent in a month from now. Occupancy is likely to be weak, especially in the major metros as business travel have come to a near halt.

Many hotels in other parts of the country too are opening up for guests. Neemrana Hotels, for instance, which caters primarily to the leisure tourist segment have started taking bookings.

The association expressed hope that the state government would increase the limit of 33 per cent capacity if signs are encouraging. It is also persuading the government to allow restaurants to re-open. Many of the big hotel chains including Marriott, Taj Group, Le Meridien among others have been taking food orders for home delivery even during the lockdown in other cities.

A senior executive working with one of the big chains said that all procedures relating to hygiene and safety of guests as well as their staff are being followed strictly.

“The buffets may not open immediately as hotels would not want people to crowd at a particular place but the same will be served to guests either in their rooms or just outside if they want,” the executive said.

At present, a few of them have already started their laundry and salon services..