Tourists Coming Back to Kashmir in Good Numbers: J&K CM Omar
The recent attacks in Pahalgam, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, may have sent shockwaves across the nation, but it seems that the tourism sector in Jammu and Kashmir is not letting the incident dampen its spirits. In a recent statement, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah announced that the tourism industry in the valley is witnessing a significant surge, with pilgrims arriving in large numbers for the Amarnath Yatra. The CM’s statement comes as a ray of hope for the tourism sector, which has been a vital part of J&K’s economy.
Abdullah’s statement was made during a tourism fair in Kolkata, where he emphasized the importance of promoting tourism in the valley. He specifically targeted tourists from West Bengal, urging them to visit J&K in good numbers. The CM’s efforts to revive tourism in the valley are a testament to the region’s resilience and determination to bounce back from the recent attacks.
The Amarnath Yatra, which is one of the largest pilgrimages in the country, has been a major draw for tourists and pilgrims alike. The yatra, which takes place every year in the summer months, attracts millions of devotees who come to pay their respects at the sacred Amarnath Cave. The pilgrimage is a significant contributor to the valley’s economy, with many locals relying on it for their livelihood.
Despite the recent attacks, the valley has seen a significant influx of tourists in recent weeks. The Amarnath Yatra, which began on June 30, has already seen over 1.5 lakh pilgrims arrive at the holy cave. The yatra is expected to conclude on August 22, with millions of devotees still expected to visit the valley.
The surge in tourism can be attributed to various factors. One of the main reasons is the valley’s natural beauty, which is unparalleled in the country. From the majestic mountains to the serene lakes and rivers, J&K is a paradise for nature lovers. The region’s rich cultural heritage, which is a blend of Hindu, Muslim, and Buddhist influences, is another major draw for tourists. The valley is home to numerous ancient temples, mosques, and monasteries, which attract tourists from all over the world.
Another factor contributing to the surge in tourism is the valley’s relative calm. Despite the recent attacks, the region has seen a significant decrease in violence in recent years. The Valley’s security forces have been working tirelessly to ensure the safety and security of tourists and locals alike. The efforts of the security forces have paid off, with many tourists reporting a sense of peace and tranquility during their visits to the valley.
The J&K government has also taken several initiatives to promote tourism in the valley. One of the main initiatives is the launch of a new tourism policy, which aims to promote sustainable tourism in the region. The policy focuses on developing infrastructure, improving connectivity, and promoting eco-tourism in the valley. The government has also launched several campaigns to promote tourism in the region, including a social media campaign that targets tourists from across the world.
The surge in tourism is not only good news for the J&K government but also for the local economy. The tourism sector is a significant contributor to the valley’s economy, with many locals relying on it for their livelihood. The sector provides employment opportunities to thousands of people, from hotel staff to guides and porters. The influx of tourists also boosts the local economy, with many locals benefiting from the sale of handicrafts, souvenirs, and other local products.
In conclusion, the statement by J&K CM Omar Abdullah that tourists are coming back to Kashmir in good numbers is a testament to the region’s resilience and determination to bounce back from the recent attacks. The surge in tourism is a significant boost to the valley’s economy and is a reminder of the region’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. As the Amarnath Yatra continues, it is expected that the valley will see even more tourists arriving in the coming weeks. The J&K government’s efforts to promote tourism in the region are paying off, and it is hoped that the sector will continue to thrive in the coming years.
