Rehan Qayoom Mir
Srinagar, Jun 17: Over 16 tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir reopened on Tuesday, nearly two months after they were closed as a precautionary measure following the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam.
The reopened sites include popular spots like Betab Valley and parks in Pahalgam Market, as well as Verinag Garden, Kokernag Garden, and Achabal Garden in south Kashmir. In the Jammu division, Sarthal and Dhaggar (Kathua), Devi Pindi, Siyad Baba, Sula Park (Reasi), Guldanda and Jai Valley (Doda), and Pancheri (Udhampur) have also been made accessible.
In Srinagar, Badamwari Park, Duck Park and Taqdeer Park are among those now open to visitors.
Officials said the reopening is being carried out in a phase-wise manner after detailed security assessments.
“The reopening of these sites marks a step towards restoring normal tourist activities. Remaining destinations will be reopened in due course of time,” he said.
Senior officers from the administration met with various stakeholders, including travel operators, hotel owners and members of the Ponywala Association in Pahalgam. They were assured that all necessary steps are being taken to ensure the safety of tourists and the smooth conduct of the annual Amarnath Yatra.
Meanwhile, the local stakeholders welcomed the reopening move. “It is a relief for those whose livelihoods depend on tourism,” said Riyaz Ahmad, a hotelier in Pahalgam. He said they are hopeful that the flow of tourists will pick up again.
Shabir Hussain, a hotel owner in Srinagar, said the reopening will help revive economic activity. “We are ready to support the upcoming yatra and ensure visitors have a safe and pleasant experience,” he said. (KNO)
