ISL boosts business, tourism in Assam

The on-going Indian Super League (ISL) is attracting major attention and the Northeast United FC is one team that has lots of hope riding on them.

The team played its first match in Guwahati recently and the city, which will be hosting a number of matches for the home team, is expected to get much benefit in terms of business and tourism.

Thousands of football fans queued up outside the Indira Gandhi Athletic Stadium at Sarasujai to watch the North East United FC take on Kerala Blasters and defeat them 1-0.

The Indian Super League fever has gripped Northeast and the football fans in the region are excited to watch top-class football and some of the best players of the game in action.

"We came to watch football. At the same time we get to meet many tourists from places like England, Kerala and from other parts of India. So, it seems like such football matches will give a boost to tourism in the region," said a local resident.

"It's really good. ISL starting in India is a great opportunity for India as well as people from all over the world who can now enjoy Indian football. This will give an opportunity to Indian people to showcase their talent and it's a great opportunity for Indian football to upgrade to higher level," said Aneesh, a visitor from Kerala.

During the tournament that will continue till December 20, Guwahati will be hosting a number of matches for the Home team, North East United FC.

With a number of tourists from both within the country and outside coming in to watch the matches, tourism sector in the state is sure to get a boost. The tournament has also come as a boon for the local businessmen.

"This is a very good time for the travel agencies and tour operators as their sales have increased. Many people from outside are booking rooms here so our hotel rooms sale has also gone up. Lots of people who have come here for the matches are staying here. So it's good that our business is getting good support," said Vikas Das, a hotel Manager in Guwahati.

"I haven't seen such a big crowd here in Lokhra before. Because of ISL our business has gone up. If such event happens frequently then our business will definitely get a boost," added Nayan Das, a businessman from Guwahati.

Owned by Bollywood actor John Abraham and I-league team Shillong Lajong FC, the Northeast United FC has a lot of expectations to meet.

With '8 states - 1 United' as its motto, the team is placing a lot of emphasis on young players from the region.

The Northeast has produced a number of good footballer players and the on-going tournament will give a greater visibility to the players from the region.