Tasaduq Hussain
Kupwara, Jul 17: With peace prevailing at Line of Control (LoC), north Kashmir is experiencing an impressive footfall of international and domestic tourists.
Peace is prevailing along LoC in Kupwara after the two armies of India and Pakistan signed a fresh ceasefire pact in February 2021, halting the bloodshed and firefight. Since then, the erstwhile no-go zones have been opened up for visitors and paving way for night camping, bonfires, trekking, and other related activities.
Officials said that the footfall of both international and domestic tourists has shown an increase compared to previous years.
They said that the facilities have been enhanced and everything required for visitors is being facilitated.
A senior administrative official privy to the tourism activities in the district said that the figures compared to previous years are close to double now. “Kupwara is witnessing an ever-increasing footfall of tourists. They include both international and domestic arrivals. All previous records have been broken in terms of tourist arrival,” the official said.
Farooq Ahmad, Executive officer of Lolab Bungus Drangyari Development Authority (LBDDA) said that the tourist footfall is increasing too much. “Since April this year, Kupwara has recorded about 1.40 lakh visitors, both international and domestic.”
He said that last year until July, 67,000 tourists arrived in the district. “This year, the number has already gone past 1.27 lakh visitors,” he added.
The executive officer said that everything required has been enhanced for a better experience. “About 76 homestay facilities have been readied and are registered with the department. They are providing both accommodation and food to visitors,” he said. “Besides, 150 homestays are providing facilities in the district but are not registered with us.”
Eco Parks, he said developed by the forest department, are acting as premier tourist attractions. “Waterfronts have been developed. Children’s parks are maintained. Tourist huts have been repaired,” he said.
