Often a destination eager to explore its golden beaches, historic and modern landmarks, and vibrant street food scenes, Vizag City is now witnessing a sharp drop in visitors’ arrivals. Sudden changes have affected small operators and community organizations that have long relied on stable visitors to make ends meet.
RK Beach, known as the lifeblood of the local economy, now has a creepy silence. “Every night, RK Beach buzzes with family and tourists, and the aroma of local snacks injects air. We haven’t seen tourists from other states in the past week,” recalls senior street vendor M. Adinarayana.
The stalls in Adinarayana are an example of the region’s vibrant market culture, and now lack any hustle and bustle, indicating a decline in business.
The downturn is not limited to street vendors. Mature hotels, tour operators and ancillary services reported a sharp drop in bookings and a series of cancellations.
“The favorable weather conditions greatly improve travel. But there is too much calories,” said Jestin Joseph, a veteran with more than 20 years of experience in the field of adventure sports.
“When summer heat peaks, from luxury resorts to small beach pavilions,” Justin said. “With the monsoon onset, its impact will be felt throughout the field in late May. We hope the tourism industry can see a revival.”
His insight emphasizes the fragile balance between natural conditions and tourists. Local suppliers are witnessing economic hardship. The stall owners have once provided sorrow for regional delicacies such as Masala Muri and Mirchi Bajji.
“Our stalls feel like a microcosm of Vizag’s power. We gather stories, miles and endless streams of customers every night. Today, the silence is deafening,” Ramesh lamented Ramesh, a long-term supplier who has been long-term burdened by a lack of sales.
“On Saturday and Sunday evenings, witnesses at Rushikonda Blue Flag Beach were 40-50,000 feet. Hotels and resorts in Alaku were empty because tourists delayed their unstable trips due to instability.”
