Shocking Crime in Hampi Casts Dark Shadow on Tourism
Tourism Industry Suffers as Visitors Cancel Bookings
Vijayanagar: The recent horrific crime in Koppal district’s Sanapur village, where an Israeli tourist and a homestay owner were subjected to a brutal sexual assault, and an Odisha-based tourist was murdered, has sent shockwaves across Karnataka. This appalling incident has had a significant negative impact on Hampi’s tourism sector, with a drastic fall in tourist arrivals and widespread cancellations of resort and homestay bookings.
The heinous crime has garnered international attention, as one of the victims is a foreign national. Various embassies have reportedly contacted the Chief Minister’s Office and Koppal district authorities to assess the safety of their citizens visiting the region.
Mass Cancellations and Declining Footfall
Hampi, a UNESCO World Heritage site, attracts a large number of foreign visitors, with Israeli tourists making up nearly 60% of them. However, in the aftermath of the crime, over 25 homestays in and around Hampi have reported booking cancellations by worried travelers. Travel agencies have confirmed that many tourists are either postponing or entirely canceling their trips to the region.
The impact of this fear is especially visible as Hampi, which usually witnesses an influx of international visitors during the Holi festival, is now seeing a sharp decline in numbers. The ripple effect is being felt across the local economy, with travel guides, auto and taxi drivers, and small-scale vendors suffering severe financial setbacks.
Tourism Industry Demands Stronger Security Measures
“The disturbing nature of this incident has deeply affected the image of Hampi as a safe tourist destination,” said Virupaksha V, Secretary of the Karnataka Tourist Guides Association. “Since the case came to light, there has been a noticeable decline in homestay bookings. If the situation is not addressed immediately, the tourism sector here will suffer irreparable damage.”
Amid the growing outrage, the Vijayanagar police have conducted meetings with homestay owners to discuss security protocols and preventive measures. Superintendent of Police, Srihari Babu B.L., stated, “This incident serves as a wake-up call. We are committed to ensuring the safety of all visitors to Hampi and the surrounding areas. New guidelines will soon be issued for homestay operators.”
Authorities have promised to increase police patrolling and take strict action against any threats to tourists. However, the incident has raised serious concerns about the safety of visitors, and the onus now lies on the administration to rebuild Hampi’s reputation as a secure and welcoming destination.
Statements & Quotes:
- “The Sanapur incident has deeply impacted Hampi’s tourism industry. We have already seen a decline in bookings, and this is a worrying trend,” said Virupaksha V, Secretary of the State Tourist Guides Association.
- “Ensuring the safety of all tourists is our priority. We will introduce stricter guidelines and increase police patrols,” assured Srihari Babu B L, Superintendent of Police, Vijayanagara.
- “Several foreign embassies have contacted us seeking updates on the safety measures for their citizens,” revealed a senior government official.
Q & A:
Q: How has the crime impacted Hampi’s tourism?
A: Homestay and resort bookings have drastically dropped, especially among international travelers. Business owners, guides, and transport operators are facing losses.
Q: What steps are being taken by the authorities?
A: Police patrols have been intensified, security measures are being revised, and guidelines for homestay operators will be announced soon.
Q: What is the reaction of foreign tourists?
A: Many have canceled their trips or postponed visits due to safety concerns. Embassies are monitoring the situation closely.
Short Summary:
The recent brutal crimes in Koppal district’s Sanapur village—including the assault of an Israeli tourist and a homestay owner, as well as the murder of a tourist from Odisha—have cast a dark shadow over Hampi’s tourism. Reports indicate that a significant number of foreign tourists, especially from Israel, are canceling their bookings in homestays and resorts. The incident has drawn international attention, prompting diplomatic inquiries. Tourism stakeholders, including guides, taxi drivers, and small business owners, are feeling the impact. Authorities have promised heightened security measures and new guidelines for homestay operators.
