Srinagar, Dec 5: The Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK) on Friday held an Executive Committee meeting attended by Minister for Jal Shakti, Forest, Ecology & Environment and Tribal Affairs Javid Rana, Advisor to the Chief Minister Nasir Aslam Wani, and Joint Director Tourism Kashmir Waseem Raja.
CCIK President Tariq Rashid Ghani welcomed the dignitaries and raised concerns over the ongoing slowdown in Kashmir’s tourism sector. He called for renewed, targeted promotional campaigns, particularly in South Indian states, to revive visitor inflow and tap into new markets.
During the meeting, the Chamber strongly objected to the ₹500 entry fee being charged at Aru Valley, arguing that it could discourage tourists and adversely impact local trade. Ghani also underscored the challenges faced by tourism taxi operators burdened with bank loans, urging the government to consider an interest waiver or a relief package.
The Chamber proposed organising winter festivals and events at popular destinations such as Gulmarg, Sonamarg and Pahalgam to boost footfall and build positive visibility for Kashmir.
“Tourism is the backbone of Kashmir’s economy, and it requires timely support and promotion,” Ghani said, appealing for the removal of the Aru Valley entry fee and relief measures for taxi operators. “With focused promotion and events, we can revive tourist confidence and send out a positive message across the country.”
The meeting was attended by President SKAL Kashmir Abdul Wahid, TTIG Chairman Akram Siah, Manzoor Paktoon, HBOA Chairman Baber Chowdary, JKHARA President Jan Mohd, Shere-Khass office-bearers and other Executive Committee members.
Minister Javid Rana assured the Chamber of positive consideration and necessary action on the issues raised. Ghani noted that CCIK has recently held a series of meetings with the Divisional Commissioner Kashmir and Deputy Commissioner Srinagar to push for resolutions to key concerns in the trade and tourism sectors.
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