Wed Apr 02 08:51:02 UTC 2025: ## Nilgiris Businesses Shut Down in Protest of Tourist E-Pass System
**UDHAGAMANDALAM, April 2, 2025** – A district-wide bandh in the Nilgiris district, organized by merchant associations, brought most businesses to a standstill on Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025. The protest targeted a Madras High Court order implementing a new e-pass system designed to regulate the influx of tourists.
The controversial system, which limits vehicle entry to 6,000 on weekdays and 8,000 on weekends, was implemented on Tuesday. Business owners, including those in the hotel and restaurant sectors, claim the system – and a previous iteration – has already caused revenue losses ranging from 15% to 40%. They fear the new restrictions will severely impact local livelihoods.
Police estimate that approximately 90% of businesses across towns like Udhagamandalam, Coonoor, Kotagiri, and Gudalur participated in the bandh. Despite the closures, popular tourist spots like the Government Botanical Garden remained open and drew significant crowds. However, many tourists experienced difficulties finding food and provisions due to the widespread restaurant closures.
R. Sankith, a tourist from Karnataka, commented on the unexpected disruption, stating he had no trouble obtaining an e-pass but faced challenges securing meals and supplies. While most restaurants were closed, hotels and lodges remained operational. The impact of the bandh on tourism remains to be seen.
First Piper 