Positive signal: KCCI on reopening of tourist destinations
Srinagar, Feb 16: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCC&I) has welcomed the Jammu and Kashmir administration’s decision to reopen 14 tourist destinations across the Union Territory, terming it a major relief for the tourism and trade sectors that have suffered significant losses in recent months.
President KCC&I, Javid Tenga, said the Chamber had been consistently urging the government to reopen tourist spots that were closed following the April attack in Pahalgam.
The Chamber expressed gratitude to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for taking the decision and appreciated Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for actively pursuing the reopening of the destinations.
KCC&I said the move would send a strong and reassuring message to visitors from across the country and abroad that Jammu and Kashmir remains a safe and welcoming destination.
The Chamber noted that the reopening would significantly help the tourism sector recover, particularly benefiting hoteliers, houseboat owners, travel and tour operators, shikara operators, tour guides, transporters, handicraft traders and thousands of workers directly and indirectly dependent on tourism for their livelihoods.
As announced by the administration, eleven tourist spots in the Kashmir Division — Yousmarg, Doodhpathri, Dandipora Park in Kokernag, Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan and Padpawan in Shopian, Astanpora, Tulip Garden in Srinagar, Thajwas Glacier, Hung Park in Ganderbal, and Wullar and Watlab in Baramulla — are to be reopened immediately.
KCC&I stated that the revival of tourism is critical for the overall economic health of Jammu and Kashmir, as the sector contributes substantially to employment generation, revenue creation and the promotion of local crafts and horticultural produce.
While welcoming the decision as a positive beginning, the Chamber stressed that all remaining tourist destinations still closed should be reopened at the earliest to ensure a comprehensive and sustained revival of the sector.
The Chamber reiterated its commitment to working closely with the administration and all stakeholders to strengthen tourism infrastructure, improve visitor facilities and promote Jammu and Kashmir as a premier, year-round tourist destination.
