Kerala MLAs, Kashmiri activists discuss sustainable tourism, climate action

Srinagar, Aug 10: A delegation of six Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) from Kerala met with local environmentalists and tourism stakeholders in Kashmir this morning to exchange views on sustainable tourism, environmental challenges, and climate change.

A statement said that the meeting was arranged on the recommendation of MLA Dr B.A. Veeri and hosted by noted social activist and environmentalist Dr. Raja Muzaffar Bhat, along with Manzoor Wangnoo, Farooq Kuthoo and Dr Rouf Malik. Discussions centred on ways to balance tourism growth with ecological preservation, particularly in fragile mountain regions.

The Kerala legislators, led by the Chairman of the Environmental Committee of the Kerala Legislative Assembly, extended a formal invitation to Kashmiri stakeholders to visit Kerala. The visit would aim to share best practices in environmental protection and explore opportunities to promote sustainable tourism in both regions.

Participants lauded Kerala’s reputation for environmental awareness, warm hospitality, and community-led conservation efforts.

In the wake of the recent Pahalgam incident, speakers also praised the tourism department, associations, and travel agents in Jammu and Kashmir for their continued efforts to keep tourism vibrant despite challenges.