Tourists Will Return

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
Representational Photo

The terrorist attack in Pahalgam that left 25 tourists and a local pony operator dead has not only sent shockwaves through the country but has also dealt a serious blow to tourism in the Valley. For a while, the tourists from across the country may avoid Kashmir until they have regained confidence in the Valley's security situation. With the government shutting down nearly 50 destinations, including some of the Valley's most scenic and emerging attractions, the Valley's tourist economy is going to take a further hit. Already some western countries, including the US have issued fresh advisories in the wake of the Pahalgam attack. This also is going to dissuade from visiting the Valley. In recent years, the arrivals of foreign tourists to the Valley had picked up. Last year alone, 43,000 foreign tourists visited the Valley – the highest in years – among the 2.95 million visitors. There is fear now that the numbers will dwindle to a few lakh visitors this year, with the arrival of foreigners reduced to a trickle. For a region where tourism has become both a symbol and sustainer of normalcy, this is a major setback.

Over the last few years, Kashmir's tourism industry has witnessed a remarkable turnaround. Following the disruption of COVID-19, the Lieutenant General Manoj Sinha's administration, with support from the central government aggressively promoted the Valley as a year-round destination. Kashmir was repositioned not just as a traditional retreat but also as a hub for adventure tourism. The opening of 75 new destinations and the rise of homestays across remote areas reflected both state intent and the hard-earned normalcy.

This growth in tourism was also a sign of stabilisation. Full hotels, packed houseboats, and bustling markets were seen as evidence that Kashmir was moving beyond the shadow of violence. In fact, the tourist influx has been a metric of success. It reflected peace and development in the region, which needs to be protected.

The brutal strike in one of the most popular and well-patrolled tourist areas has rightly forced the government to take earnest corrective measures. And the government has swiftly gone about its job. And there's hope that the situation will get back to normal sooner than later.

To restore confidence, authorities must quickly complete security assessments and deploy adequate personnel in high-footfall zones. Simultaneously, better coordination between tourism planners and the security establishment is essential before new areas are thrown open. The new government steps do point in that direction. The LG administration – now followed by the hybrid government – is singularly responsible for transforming the situation over the past five years. And they can be counted on to face and overcoming the current challenge as well.

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