Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Dec 11: Director Tourism, Raja Yaqoob on Wednesday said government is actively planning to permit the use of satellite phones for tourists visiting the areas like Tarsar Marsar and other remote trekking spots in the Valley.
The move comes in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the Ministry of Tourism to enhance communication accessibility in these high-altitude areas, ensuring the safety of visitors, Yaqoob said.
Speaking with reporters in Srinagar, Raja Yaqoob said the “network blackouts affect many trekkers and adventure seekers in these regions. Allowing satellite phones is at an advanced stage of planning and is similar to measures already taken in Puducherry.”
The official added that Kashmir has seen a major increase in adventure tourism with treks like Tarsar Marsar and Kashmir Great Lakes, attracting growing numbers of domestic and international visitors.
Furthermore, Raja Yaqoob shared the steady influx of international visitors, sharing, “We are welcoming 200-500 international tourists daily, even though the snowfall has been delayed this year.” He also spoke about this year’s first international marathon, which saw participation from 59 international visitors from 13 countries.
He also highlighted the government’s investments aimed at improving trekking infrastructure and adventure sports, including the acquisition of advanced trekking tools, skiing equipment, and snow grooming machines. “After 30 years, any such machine like snow groomer will arrive in Kashmir,” he said.
