Kolkata: Businesses in Kolkata's hospitality and retail sectors are preparing for a much-awaited revival after India resumed issuing visas to Bangladeshi nationals. The decision is expected to restore cross-border travel, bringing back thousands of visitors who have traditionally contributed significantly to the city's tourism, shopping, and hospitality economy.
For months, the suspension of visa services had severely affected hotels, restaurants, transport operators, and retailers that depend heavily on Bangladeshi travellers. Areas such as New Market and central Kolkata, popular among visitors from Bangladesh, witnessed a sharp decline in footfall, leading to reduced business activity and financial losses.
With visa processing now resuming, hotel owners have begun refurbishing their properties, reopening rooms, and recruiting staff in anticipation of increased tourist arrivals. Retailers are also replenishing inventories, introducing promotional offers, and preparing for a surge in demand as Bangladeshi shoppers return to the city.
Industry stakeholders believe the resumption of visa services will provide a timely boost to Kolkata's tourism ecosystem. Bangladeshi visitors have long been an important market for the city, travelling for leisure, shopping, medical treatment, and business. Their return is expected to support a wide range of local businesses, from accommodation providers and restaurants to transport operators and shopping centres.
Tourism and trade associations remain optimistic that the easing of travel restrictions will strengthen people-to-people ties between India and Bangladesh while helping businesses recover from months of reduced cross-border movement. The renewed flow of visitors is also expected to generate employment opportunities and contribute to the local economy in the coming months.
The restoration of visa services marks an important step toward reviving regional tourism and cross-border commerce. As travel demand gradually returns, Kolkata's hospitality and retail sectors are looking forward to welcoming Bangladeshi travellers once again and rebuilding one of eastern India's most significant tourism markets.
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