KCCI welcomes reopening of several tourist spots in Kashmir

SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) has welcomed the Jammu and Kashmir administration’s decision to reopen eight prominent tourist destinations in the Valley, terming it a “vital and timely intervention” aimed at reviving the region’s struggling tourism sector.

The move, announced by Hon’ble Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha, comes in the wake of a recent tragic attack in the Pahalgam area that had led to heightened security concerns and temporary closure of several tourist spots.

As per the announcement, popular attractions such as Betab Valley, Verinag, Kokernag, and Achabal Gardens in Anantnag district, along with public parks in the Pahalgam market area, have now been reopened to the public. In Srinagar, the list includes the reopening of Badamwari Garden, Duck Park, and Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal.

KCCI, in its statement, emphasized that tourism in Kashmir is not only a cultural and ecological treasure but also a crucial economic lifeline for thousands of families, including traders, transporters, hoteliers, artisans, and small business owners.

“The reopening of these areas is expected to send a strong and positive message to tourists across the country and abroad,” the Chamber said, adding that the decision is a response to its earlier appeals made to the Lieutenant Governor and the Hon’ble Chief Minister to restore access to these key destinations.

KCCI acknowledged the modest but consistent recovery in tourist arrivals over recent weeks and expressed optimism that the latest move will further reinforce the trend.

The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the administration in promoting sustainable tourism and pledged to continue advocating for the needs of Kashmir’s business and tourism sectors.

KCCI also urged the government to consider reopening more destinations currently closed, to help further revitalize the tourism industry.