Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir have announced the reopening of 16 tourist destinations, over seven weeks after they were closed in the aftermath of a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam. The move aims to revive the vital tourism sector ahead of the upcoming Amarnath pilgrimage.
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, speaking on Saturday, said the decision was taken after a review meeting with civil and police officials. He described it as the first step toward restoring normal tourist activity and boosting local livelihoods in the region.
The tourist spots reopened are Betaab Valley, the serene Verinag, Kokernag, the historic Achabal Mughal Gardens, and various parks within Pahalgam town. The reopening has been met with widespread positive reception from locals, political leaders, and eager tourists.
Visitors eager to return
A female tourist in Pahalgam, speaking to ANI, expressed her support for the government’s decision. “This decision of the government is right. If there is no tourism, how will the locals survive? The government’s initiative is good. Tourist places are reopening with adequate security. I urge everyone to visit and support tourism here,” she stated.
Political figures also lauded the move. Altaf Bukhari, president of the Apni Party, described it as a “welcome step,” emphasising that it “sends a positive message to the nation that Kashmir is normal now.” He extended an appeal to people across India, encouraging them to visit Kashmir, asserting its safety comparable to their own cities and homes.
Pahalgam MLA Altaf Kaloo highlighted the broader positive implications and said, “The places have opened and the Amarnath Yatra is also going to start soon. This is a positive thing. In the coming time, all other tourist places will also open. The number of tourists has started increasing, which is a positive sign. Our message to the people of Jammu and Kashmir is that it is our duty to make the Yatra a success.”
On Saturday, Lieutenant Governor Sinha visited Pahalgam, engaging with various delegations, including MLAs, DDC chairpersons, tour operators, and hoteliers. He assured them that further restrictions would be eased following comprehensive security reviews.
In an update shared on the social media platform X, LG Sinha detailed the phased reopening plan. He stated, “I’ve ordered reopening of some of the tourist spots in Kashmir & Jammu Divisions, which were temporarily closed as precautionary measures. Betab Valley & Parks in Pahalgam Market, Verinag Garden, Kokernag Garden and Achabal Garden to be reopened from 17th June.”
He further added that other destinations slated for reopening include Badamwari Park, Duck Park, Taqdeer Park in Srinagar, Sarthal, Dhaggar in Kathua, Devi Pindi, Siyad Baba, Sula Park in Reasi, Guldanda & Jai valley in Doda and Pancheri in Udhampur.
(With ANI Inputs)