Looks like the travel operators in the city are enjoying a windfall against the backdrop of Pravasi Bharatiya Divas and other major events being held in the city. In fact, travel operators are finding it hard to cater to the growing demands. Soon after PBD, the oncoming ODI will keep them busy.
“Most of the taxis are on tour packages. The remaining few are kept aside for our regular clients, especially corporates. So when new events are organised we face a shortage of vehicles. We make temporary arrangements with the operators of other districts to address the issue,” said S Kasi Viswanathan, director, of Kagna Travels.
Most of the travel operators had the same thing to say. “The hotel rooms are overbooked and so are cabs. We are outsourcing services to meet the demands.”
Event managers who are in charge of PBD have entrusted various agencies for cab services. Travel operators in Kalamassery, Aluva, Thevara among others are meeting the demands of PBD. Cabs are required not only for the VIPs but also for the organisers of related entertainment programmes.
“The demand will be more on Tuesday. Usually each VIP will require a cab at his or her disposal. So we outsource taxis from the suburbs and neighbouring districts. We have 2000 cabs but during peak season, more vehicles are required, said Ajith, president, Travel Operators Association of Kerala.
"There are small players who don’t belong to our association and they are also in demand. Soon after the PBD, the ODI will also require our services. The teams will arrive on January 12. Just like hotels we raise our charge when the demand is more but offer reduction during off-season,” said Ajith.