Vijayawada: Andhra Pradesh Chambers of Commerce and Industry (AP Chambers) expressed its sincere thanks to Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu for the important announcements made on the occasion of Tourism Day.

Speaking to the media here on Sunday, AP Chambers President Potluri Bhaskar Rao and Secretary B Rajasekhar said that the decision to grant industry status to the tourism sector is an important step which they have been advocating for the past five years. He said that this proactive initiative is expected to encourage growth and investment in tourism, which is vital to our state’s economy.

He also thanked the Chief Minister for heeding the request to allow restaurants to remain open till midnight. This change will enhance the dining experience for locals and tourists alike, contributing positively to the tourism landscape of Andhra Pradesh.

He said he was looking forward to the announcement of the tourism policy on October 15 and requested the chief minister to include a separate and attractive beverage and liquor policy.

Besides, he urged the government to focus on the development of Buddhist circuits and work to get important places like Lipakshi, Gandikota Grand Canyon and the Fort and Belum Caves as World Heritage Sites.

Besides, he requested the state government to consider an attractive and exclusive ‘Beach Shakes Policy’ for the entire coastline spanning nine districts from Srikakulam to Nellore. The policy should address key issues such as CRZ/CZMA regulations, clean beaches, waste disposal, and code of conduct for responsible tourism practices, promoting sustainable coastal tourism.