Kathmandu: The airline operators have objected to the suggestion of the Upatyaka Municipal Forum to lock down the Kathmandu Valley after Tihar and Chhath festivals.
The Association of Airlines Operators of Nepal (AOAN) has expressed its complete disagreement with the shutdown, citing that the country could not afford more shutdowns in the event of a six-month shutdown and collapse of the economy due to sanctions.
AOAN spokesperson Yograj Kandel said that it is not justifiable to halt other businesses including tourism, transport and air services after the lockdown and lifting of the ban.
The government has decided to start all kinds of tourism activities from November. Stating that this has made tourism, hotel and aviation entrepreneurs optimistic, AOAN said that booking of holiday packages and trekking has also started.
The airlines have demanded that those who do not follow the health safety standards be brought under the ambit of action, saying that the use of masks and social distance can be avoided.
Stating that the infection is increasing even in the midst of lockdown, AOAN clarified that lockdown alone is not a way to control corona.