As the second wave of the Corona subsided, the number of tourists began to flock to the Queen of the Hills, Darjeeling in West Bengal. Though there is a sense of relief in the rest of the state as Covid situation is under control, the infection continues to grow in the hills. The Darjeeling district administration sees the influx of tourists as one of the reasons behind the sudden increase in infections.
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To curb the spread of infection, the administration has made it mandatory for tourists to be doubly vaccinated or carry a negative RTPCR test report not more than 3 days old. Tourists are being sent back if they don’t fulfill the condition.
Meanwhile, the West Bengal government has extended the COVID-19 restrictions in the state till August 15. The night curfew hours will remain in place between 9 PM to 5 AM except emergency and essential services. Issuing a press release, the state government reiterated that wearing of masks, maintenance of physical distancing and health & hygiene protocol must be followed at all times.