Traders welcome reopening of 12 tourist destinations in J&K

Srinagar, Sep 27: The trade bodies in Kashmir on Saturday welcomed the Jammu & Kashmir administration’s decision of reopening 12 more tourist destinations from Monday (29th September), terming it a positive move for the Valley’s struggling tourism sector.

However, the trade bodies including the Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK) appealed for the immediate reopening of all destinations to prevent further economic losses.

The decision, as per the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), was taken during a high-level review meeting chaired by Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha.

Seven destinations in Kashmir Division — including Aru Valley, Rafting Point Yanner, Akkad Park, Padshahi Park, and Kaman Post — and five in Jammu Division — including Dagan Top (Ramban), Dhaggar (Kathua) and Shiv Cave in Salal (Reasi) — will reopen for visitors.

KCCI President said the reopening was a “timely step” to revive business sentiment. “We are grateful to the Lieutenant Governor for considering the concerns of the business community and taking measures to support the tourism ecosystem,” he said.

CCIK President Tariq Gani also welcomed the announcement, calling it a much-needed measure. “It is a positive step, but the government must also ensure that other destinations are cleared and reopened at the earliest. The entire tourism chain depends on the full revival of these spots,” he told KNO.

The trade bodies said that the continued closure of other sites, shut since April 22 after the Pahalgam attack, should also be lifted. “Hotels, houseboats, guest houses and transporters are reporting negligible occupancy and earnings. Traders, artisans, ponywalas, shikarawalas and guides are equally affected. The losses are mounting by the day,” the Chamber noted.

Traders linked with handicrafts and travel also pressed for a broader revival package. “We need marketing campaigns and special incentives for businesses linked to tourism. Without comprehensive support, the sector will take much longer to recover,” a Srinagar-based trader told KNO.

The Chambers also reiterated their commitment to work with the government and stakeholders. “Tourism remains a key pillar of J&K’s economy and a lifeline for thousands. We will continue to extend full cooperation to strengthen it further,” they said.