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The tourism sector experienced a sharp downturn after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, prompting tourists to remove J&K from their travel plans over security concerns
J-K lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha (File/ANI)
Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday announced the phased reopening of major tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir, as part of a broader push to revive tourism in the region.
The tourism sector experienced a sharp downturn after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, which claimed 26 lives, prompting tourists to remove J&K from their travel plans.
“Tourism is picking up. All train bookings to Jammu are full for the next 10 to 12 days. We are seeing a renewed enthusiasm,” L-G Sinha told reporters while reviewing Shri Amarnath Yatra preparations at the Nunwan base camp in Pahalgam.
In the first phase, eight key locations in Kashmir have been cleared to welcome visitors.
These include Betaab Valley, public parks in Pahalgam market, Verinag Garden, Kokernag Garden, Achabal Garden (Anantnag), Badamwari Park, Duck Park (Nigeen), and Takht-e-Sulaiman Park near Hazratbal in Srinagar.
In Jammu, destinations such as Sarthal and Dagger (Kathua), Devi Pindi and Sihar Baba (Reasi), Gul Danda and Jai Valley (Doda), and Pancheri (Udhampur) have also been reopened.
The move follows a joint review by Divisional Commissioners and Inspectors General of Police from both regions, based on field assessments.
“The safety of our tourists remains paramount. Reopening these destinations will give a strong message of confidence and normalcy,” Sinha said, adding that more sites will reopen in the second phase after further evaluation.
Speaking on the upcoming Amarnath Yatra, Sinha noted that it is not merely an administrative or security operation, but a sacred journey that belongs to all citizens.
“This Yatra is not just the responsibility of the administration or forces; it is the people’s Yatra. Everyone should feel proud to contribute to it,” he said.
He noted that infrastructure around the pilgrimage has improved in recent years, with enhanced roads, telecom connectivity, accommodation, and a special convoy plan for safe travel from Jammu.
Sinha also handed over a government appointment letter to the wife of Syed Adil, one of the 26 victims of a recent terror attack in Pahalgam. “These steps are building a new atmosphere of trust and progress,” he added.
He further revealed that Srinagar is set to host a series of high-level visits from Union Ministers, Parliamentary Committees, and senior officials in the coming weeks, reflecting growing national focus and investment in the Union Territory.
Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be…Read More
Ronit Singh, Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com, works with the India and Breaking News team. He has a keen focus on Indian politics and aims to cover unexplored angles. Ronit is an alumnus of Christ (Deemed to be… Read More
- Location :
Jammu and Kashmir, India, India
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