Phased reopening of J&K tourism spots a welcome move

THE phased reopening of tourist spots in Jammu and Kashmir is an unmistakable sign that normalcy is returning to the Union Territory almost two months after the Pahalgam shocker. Lt Governor Manoj Sinha has said that the decision was taken after security assessments by the divisional commissioners and senior police officers. The all-important questions is: Will this all-clear given by the authorities be enough to encourage tourists to visit Kashmir? Their safety is of paramount importance, and there is no room for any laxity. It’s vital to make visitors feel at ease as the horrifying massacre is still fresh in people’s minds. All stakeholders — security forces, tour operators, hoteliers, local guides — must work in close coordination.