New Delhi: Maldives’ economy will suffer immensely if a solution is not found to the ongoing diplomatic row, opined All India Association of Tour Operators Rajeev Mehra. Mehra underlined that Indian tourists comprise of nearly 20 percent of the revenue that Maldives generates through tourism and that if this issue is not resolved the country in upcoming weeks will feel an economic dent in their pockets.

“It is sad that such a comment has been made against the Prime minister of the country. This should not have been done. The reality is that India contributes to 20 percent income of Maldives that comes through tourism and if a negative sentiment against Maldives continue they are going to suffer heavily," Mehra told Republic.

Talking about the cancellation of holiday bookings, he said that no cancellations have taken place but the new bookings have dropped significantly. “No one will cancel expensive bookings, cancellations did not happen but yes, there is a significant drop in the new bookings,” he said.

The statement comes after the row between Maldives and India continued to spiral after three Maldivian ministers made objectionable remarks against Prime Minister Modi, who had visited Lakshadweep in the past week and asked people of the country to explore the Indian Island.

Meanwhile Mehra also pointed out the improvements that should be made to boost tourism in Lakshadweep.

“Many more flight options, new hotels, better water sport equipment need to be introduced in Lakshadweep to attract tourists. The Island has a lot of potential. I am sure that they way Prime Minister Modi augmented the construction of Ram Temple. Same way in just a year we will see Lakshadweep reform,” he said.