Covid-19: Tourist footfall in old city dwindles

Hyderabad: The resurgence of Covid cases in the last few days in the State is slowly casting its effect on the footfall of tourists in the older parts of the city. The historic markets of the Old City, which had slowly started getting back its shoppers, are now wearing a deserted look these days. Usually […]

Hyderabad: The resurgence of Covid cases in the last few days in the State is slowly casting its effect on the footfall of tourists in the older parts of the city.

The historic markets of the Old City, which had slowly started getting back its shoppers, are now wearing a deserted look these days.

Usually between December and February, a huge number of tourists from neighbouring States visit the city and the markets spot a lively look. “Compared to last year, the tourists flow is very less. At least, the previous year there was some business, but it is not so now,” pointed out Old City Traders Association general secretary Abid Mohiuddin.

Thousands of domestic and foreign tourists come to the historic areas of the old city to visit the heritage monuments and markets that are popular for its bangles, traditional dresses, handicrafts and mouth-watering food.

Around 1,500 to 2,000 persons visit the iconic Charminar monument on weekdays while the numbers are higher on weekends. Similarly, a huge number of people visit the Salar Jung Museum, Nizam’s Museum and the Chowmahalla Palace.

“The number of visitors to the Charminar have come down drastically. In the neighbouring States, there are restrictions in place and that is also a reason,” pointed out a staffer at the monument.

Hundreds of traders depended on the tourists who visit during the winter months and shop around. “Now, we have very low business. Even local people from the city are not visiting the market or the monument on weekends for fear of Covid,” pointed out Mohd Yousuf, a bangle trader.

“During the previous lockdowns, we suffered a lot economically. We expected things will improve at least this year, now with tourists staying out we are literally without business,” said Shahnawaz Khan, who sells imitation jewelry at New Laad Bazaar near Charminar.

‘Praying to Almighty’

The traders are now keeping their fingers crossed and watching over the developments. “We are just praying to the Almighty to keep us away from economic hardship,” said a trader.

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