Timely boost to tourism

The administration in Jammu & Kashmir has decided to reopen 14 more tourist destinations across the region, which were closed for the public after the deadly Pahalgam attack that left nearly two dozen innocents, mostly dead in April last year. The reopening of tourist destinations marks a significant move towards normalcy and economic revival. It signals renewed confidence in stability across Jammu & Kashmir. 11 tourist spots in Kashmir Division like Yousmarg, Doodhpathri; Dandipora Park; Peer Ki Gali, Dubjan, Padpawan; Astanpora, Tulip Garden; Thajwas Glacier, Hung Park and Wullar/Watlab and three in Jammu like Devi Pindi, Mahu Mangat and Mughal Maidan to be reopened immediately. Gurez, Athwatoo, Bangus and Ramkund to be reopened once snow gets cleared. While the shutdown was necessary from a security point of view, the closure inevitably impacted livelihoods. Thousands of families in Jammu & Kashmir depend directly or indirectly on tourism. Therefore, reopening these destinations is being seen as a restoration of hope for them. Tourism has long been the backbone of the region’s economy, contributing significantly to employment generation and local enterprise. With improved security arrangements and vigilant monitoring, the return of visitors can rejuvenate business activity in hotels, houseboats, restaurants and handicraft markets. However, reopening must go hand in hand with sustained security measures and responsible tourism management. Confidence, once shaken, takes time to rebuild. The administration must ensure seamless coordination among security agencies, tourism stakeholders and local communities to maintain safety standards. If managed prudently, this decision can usher in a new chapter for Jammu & Kashmir, where peace and prosperity reinforce each other. The revival of tourism is about restoring faith in the region’s enduring appeal as a land of beauty, resilience and opportunity.