Srinagar, July 4: The Jammu & Kashmir Houseboat Owners Association has welcomed the decision to withdraw the proposed weekly runway closure at Srinagar Airport, describing it as a timely relief for the tourism sector during the peak travel season.
Association President Manzoor Pakhtoon, speaking to Ziraat Times, said the decision to continue flight operations on all days would help sustain tourist arrivals and prevent disruptions that could have adversely affected the hospitality industry.
“We welcome the government’s decision to withdraw the proposed runway closure. Continuous air connectivity is crucial for tourism in Jammu & Kashmir, and this move will help the ongoing tourism season by ensuring that visitors can travel without uncertainty,” Pakhtoon said.
He said the proposed closure had created concerns among tourism stakeholders, particularly houseboat owners, hotels, travel operators and other businesses dependent on a steady flow of visitors.
Pakhtoon also expressed hope that uninterrupted flight operations would restore confidence among tourists and tour operators, contributing to stronger tourist footfall in the Valley during the remainder of the season.
Srinagar Airport on Saturday announced the withdrawal of the previously proposed weekly runway closure, confirming that flight operations will continue on all days while night-time runway maintenance will continue until October 2026. The decision has also been welcomed by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who thanked the Government of India for responding positively to the concerns raised by the Jammu & Kashmir government.
