Pahalgam attack: The Pahalgam terror attack last month didn't just kill people. It cast a long-term shadow on tourism, one of the contributors to Jammu and Kashmir's economy. Never before have so many tourists been killed in a single attack in Kashmir's violent past.
Dal Lake in Srinagar. Image Source : PTI (FILE)
Srinagar:
In the wake of the tragic and brutal killing of 26 civilians in Pahalgam on April 22 (Tuesday), Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged the formulation of a comprehensive tourism revival strategy in order to restore confidence and rejuvenate the Valley's vital tourism sector. Chairing a meeting with tourism stakeholders in Srinagar on Thursday (May 15), CM Omar Abdullah expressed concern over the deep impact of the recent violence on local businesses and livelihoods dependent on tourism.
“We must create a well-thought-out plan without rushing, and implement it with clarity after the Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra concludes,” he said.
CM Abdullah outlined multi-pronged revival blueprint that would support-
Hotels
Houseboats
Shikaras
Taxis
Handicrafts
Small businesses
Abdullah also suggested organising unique shopping festivals akin to those in Dubai, laser light shows, and cultural performances to enhance the tourist experience and draw visitors back. Acknowledging the financial distress among stakeholders, especially small entrepreneurs who recently took loans for taxis, minibuses, and guesthouses, the Chief Minister announced his intent to pursue a relief package from the central government.
“We’ll advocate for loan deferments for at least two quarters and push for direct financial support for those affected, particularly in border areas where homes and shops have been damaged,” Omar stated.
(Image Source : PTI (FILE) )Tourists lined up at a Gondola cable car station at Gulmarg in Baramulla district.
CM Abdullah assures tourism sector to raise matter with PM Modi
He further assured the sector that he would personally raise the matter with the Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and senior officials in New Delhi to secure urgent intervention. Tourism stakeholders at the meeting recommended hosting Familiarisation (FAM) tours, encouraging LTC-linked corporate visits, government conferences in Kashmir, and securing airfare reductions to make travel more accessible.
Despite the setback, Omar expressed optimism, revealing that several organisations and individuals have already reached out to promote Kashmir’s tourism once again.
“I’m committed to participating in joint promotional campaigns to rebuild trust and show the world that Kashmir is ready to welcome guests with warmth and peace,” Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said.
The meeting concluded with a collective agreement to approach tourism revival in a structured, strategic, and sustained manner, ensuring long-term resilience and prosperity for the region.
J-K CM Omar Abdullah meets hoteliers
Omar Abdullah chaired a meeting with the Hoteliers Association at the Civil Secretariat. He held the meeting to discuss their concerns after the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir's Anantnag district, which had significantly impacted tourism in the region. CM Abdullah assured various stakeholders present at the meeting that the government is fully committed to supporting the sector and will carefully consider their valuable suggestions.
Well-thought-out 'tourism revival plan'
The attack has instilled fear among tourists, leading to a decline in tourism in the region. Many tourists have cancelled their trips, and travel agencies have reported a significant drop in bookings. Addressing the gathering, the Chief Minister called for the formulation of a comprehensive and well-thought-out tourism revival plan.
"This is my suggestion for your consideration that we thoughtfully shape and finalise this plan without undue haste," he said. He proposed that a robust tourism revival strategy be jointly developed with the Tourism Department after the conclusion of this year's Shri Amarnath ji Yatra.
"We should also consider engaging artists for cultural performances, restarting the laser fountain shows, and introducing other attractions to enhance the tourist experience," the Chief Minister added. Acknowledging the difficulties faced by the tourism sector, Omar Abdullah said, "I understand the challenges many of you are grappling with, be it managing establishments, retaining employees, or dealing with fixed overheads. Many among you are under pressure due to bank loans."
He expressed particular concern for small-scale entrepreneurs who have recently taken loans to purchase tourist taxis, deluxe minibuses or built guest accommodations in their homes.
"In this regard, I plan to engage with the Tourism Department and relevant authorities to advocate for a dedicated relief package from the Government of India," he said. "A comprehensive package should cater to individuals affected in the border areas, where homes and shops have been damaged. For the tourism sector, we will explore the possibility of loan deferments for at least two quarters, which would provide temporary relief and reduce financial stress on stakeholders," the Chief Minister stated.
Highlighting the ongoing interest in J-K as a tourism destination, Omar Abdullah said there is already enthusiasm for promotional activities and FAM (Familiarisation) tours.
"I have been receiving calls from individuals and organisations eager to promote Jammu and Kashmir and bring back tourists in large numbers," he said, adding that he would personally participate in joint promotional campaigns as the situation stabilises. The Chief Minister assured the gathering that he would take up the issue of financial support and interest relief directly with the Prime Minister, the Finance Minister, and other senior central government officials. "We will approach this in a structured and result-oriented manner," he affirmed.
The Pahalgam terror attack has had economic implications for the local population, with many businesses dependent on tourism suffering losses.
