Kashmir tourism gets fresh push as L-G clears reopening of sites

THE decision by Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha to reopen more tourist destinations that were shut following last year’s Pahalgam attack has rekindled hope in Kashmir’s tourism sector, with stakeholders expecting a boost in visitor arrivals ahead of the summer season.In the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack, in which 26 people were killed, authorities had closed dozens of tourist spots across the Union Territory as a precautionary measure pending a comprehensive security audit. The move had brought tourism activities in the Valley to a near standstill.Earlier this week, Sinha announced that additional tourist sites would be reopened following a detailed security review. “After a thorough security review and discussions, I have ordered the reopening of more tourist spots in Kashmir and Jammu divisions that were temporarily closed as precautionary measures,” the Lieutenant Governor said.According to officials, 11 tourist destinations in the Kashmir Division and three in the Jammu Division were reopened immediately. Sinha added that three sites in Kashmir Division — Gurez, Athwatoo and Bangus — along with Ramkund in Ramban district of Jammu Division, will be reopened once snow clearance is completed.Industry welcomes moveThe announcement has been widely welcomed by tourism stakeholders in the Valley. Manzoor Pakhtoon, president of the All Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association, said the closure of tourist spots had created apprehension among visitors.“Due to the closure of several destinations, there was a sense of fear among tourists visiting Kashmir. We hope this fear will now subside. The move sends out a positive message and will help bring tourists back,” he said.Showkat Ahmad, a Srinagar-based hotelier, echoed similar sentiments. “Last year was difficult for tourism. When people outside heard that many spots were closed due to security concerns, they would reconsider their travel plans. This decision will definitely send a reassuring message,” he said.Political push for reopeningThe decision comes shortly after the recent visit of Union Home Minister Amit Shah to Jammu. Chief Minister Omar Abdullah had earlier informed the Assembly that efforts were underway to reopen the destinations closed after the Pahalgam attack.Sources said the Chief Minister raised the issue during discussions around the Home Minister’s visit. Omar, who also holds the Tourism portfolio, reiterated in the Assembly on Thursday that all destinations shut in the wake of the attack would be reopened by May.With the peak tourist season approaching, industry players are hopeful that the phased reopening of destinations will help restore confidence and revive a sector that serves as a key economic lifeline for thousands of families across the Valley.

Kashmir tourism gets fresh push as L-G clears reopening of sites

#KashmirAngle: Stakeholders expect a boost in visitor arrivals ahead of the summer season

Adil Akhzer

Our Correspondent

Kashmir tourism gets fresh push as L-G clears reopening of sites

#KashmirAngle: Stakeholders expect a boost in visitor arrivals ahead of the summer season

Adil Akhzer

Our Correspondent

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