KCCI urges L-G Sinha to address trade, tourism, export challenges

With Kashmir’s tourism industry witnessing a major hit after Pahalgam terror attack this year, Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry, a leading trade body in the Valley, is planning a meeting with Ambassadors in Delhi to promote tourism.

Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a lull in tourism industry, especially after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam in which 26 people were killed. Those associated with the tourism sector have already raised concern stating they suffered severe losses this year due to different reasons. They say Kashmir is not witnessing the rush of tourists that it used to earlier.

On Saturday, a delegation of the Executive Committee of the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), led by its President, Javid Ahmad Tenga, called on Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha at Raj Bhawan for an introductory meeting with the newly elected office-bearers and executive committee members of KCCI.

A spokesperson said the delegation also discussed initiatives to promote tourism, including a proposed roadshow in Mumbai and a meeting with Ambassadors in Delhi, aimed at enhancing Kashmir’s visibility as a tourist destination and addressing travel advisories issued by certain countries.

According to KCCI, key matters discussed included the suspension of cargo services by Air India to Gulf countries from Srinagar Airport, which is “affecting exporters to fulfil their delivery commitments and causing significant losses.”

During the introductory meeting, the L-G assured the delegation of his full support in addressing the issues faced by trade, commerce, and industry in Kashmir, the KCCI said.