Nepal Association of Tour Operators (NATO) has said the existing petroleum shortage caused by the ongoing unrest in Terai region has seriously hit the ski apartment Nepal tourism industry.

NATO has said tourists have started cancelling bookings as the petroleum crunch has caused disruption of many tourism-related services.

“NATO feels that the fuel shortage must be addressed with utmost urgency as the whole nation is reeling under the crisis. In particular, the tourism industry is facing hardships due to this problem as cancellations from various groups have already started pouring in,” a press statement issued by NATO said Monday.

Transportation to and from eastern and southern districts has been badly affected due to shortage of petroleum products and blockages put by the protesting groups. Supply of petroleum products from India has been obstructed due to the Terai unrest, resulting in fuel crisis across the nation.

“In light of these circumstances, NATO urges all to amicably solve the differences in opinion and once again restore peace in the country,” the statement said.

It added, “At a time when the tourism industry is finally showing signs of revival and foreign clients are planning to come to Nepal, this crisis is posing as a major setback. If we do not forever forego these demonstrations and strikes immediately, we will never be able to improve the tarnished image of Nepal and promote Nepal as a safe tourist destination."