Hotel businessmen acted against fake news from rain disaster in Manali
The tourism industry of Manali, who is already struggling with seasonal challenges, has now suffered another setback due to fake news spread on social media about the SO calls “Mega Rain Disaster” in the region. Following the recent incidents of Cloudburst in Jeevanala and Gadsa Valleys in the Kullu district, some crimes on social platforms used fake news of a similar disaster in Manali, which caused panic and canceled the trip. Local hotel companies have expressed concern about the wrong information campaign, which they believe is not only misleading, but also damaged the region’s economy dependent on tourism. Hemraj Sharma, a hotel businessman from Manali, expressed sadness about the loss in the business due to such false reporting. He said: “It is very sad. It has been reported that I cancel the journey of a group of 12 people because of this fake news. It is very disappointing that our country is suffering from nature phenomena every year, but also to the negligence of online irresponsible persons.” Anop Thakur and Gajendra Thakur, former presidents of the Hotel Business Association Manali, expressed a similar feeling. Both condemned the spread of false reports and urged the officials to act strictly against those who were trying to discredit Manali’s image. Anop Thakur said: “This is a matter of serious concern. Some people who are irresponsible in Manali, broadcast wrong information about the disaster in Manali, which is absolutely wrong. The area is safe, the highway is open and all tourist activities are going normal.” Hotel businessmen have called on both the public and tourists to confirm the facts via official channels before responding to such a post. He made it clear that there were incidents of Cloudburst in some remote areas of Kullu, but that there was no disaster in Manali City. Gajendra Thakur said: “Unfortunately, such a minor impact can also do great damage to tourism. The discussion in hotels has currently reduced by 50 percent, which is worrying during the high season.” He requested the administration and cyber crime cells to identify and punish those who spread wrong information, as it affects not only existence but also at stake. Share this story -tags