JKTABF meets Dir Tourism, discusses issues concerning hospitality sector

Srinagar, Feb 16: The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism and Allied Businesses Forum (JKTABF) on Monday met Director Tourism, Kashmir, Syed Qamar Sajad, to discuss key issues concerning the tourism and hospitality sector in the Valley.

During the meeting, the Forum appreciated the Director for extending the validity of hotel licence renewals to five years, terming the move a major relief for stakeholders across the industry. Members said the decision would reduce procedural hurdles and provide much-needed long-term stability to hoteliers.

The delegation also held detailed discussions on the proposed installation of cable cars at major tourist destinations, including Pahalgam, Sonmarg, Doodpathri and Shankaracharya Temple, stressing that such projects would significantly enhance visitor experience and strengthen tourism infrastructure.

The Forum emphasised the need to promote Jammu and Kashmir as a premier all-season travel destination and called for greater coordination between the Tourism Department and industry stakeholders to ensure sustained growth of the sector.

Chairman Mushtaq Chaya expressed optimism about the region’s tourism prospects, stating that Kashmir is steadily regaining its position as one of the country’s leading tourist destinations.

The delegation also raised concerns regarding pending renewal cases of hotels on Dal Lake and houseboats, urging the department to resolve the matter at the earliest to ease uncertainty faced by operators.

The meeting concluded on a positive note, with both sides assuring continued cooperation for the overall development and strengthening of the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir.