Suhail Bhat
Srinagar, Aug 4: Three months after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, its ripple effects continue to hit Kashmir’s tourism sector, with Gulmarg, one of the Valley’s top destinations, still witnessing low tourist footfall as hoteliers, pony wallas, and other stakeholders struggle to recover.
Despite heightened security, CCTV surveillance, and assurances of safety, local business owners say there has been no significant recovery. “Our hotel has been completely emptied for the past 15 days. Since the Pahalgam attack, we have had barely any occupancy. Last week, a major hotel laid off 15 employees due to lack of business. Even big hotels have started cutting staff. Families are suffering, and no one is talking about it,” a hotel staffer said.
Once known for long queues at the Gondola, bustling pony rides, and packed resorts, Gulmarg now paints a starkly different picture. Pony stands lie mostly deserted, and tourists are seen in only small numbers. “We used to earn well every day, barely having time to sit. Now, we are lucky to make Rs 200 a day. We have taken care of our horses through winter, but there are no tourists. I urge people to come, as there is no threat. It is completely safe,” said Ghulam Hassan, a pony operator. Tourists who have braved the fear say their experience has been overwhelmingly positive. “First time in my life I have seen such a heaven. We felt safe throughout,” a tourist said.
A regular visitor from Mumbai added, “We are here for the last 15 days and felt no threat. After the attack, we had apprehensions, but everything feels secure.”
Chief Executive Officer, of Gulmarg Development Authority Tariq Naik, acknowledged the dip in tourist numbers but expressed optimism. “Before April, we had 10,000 to 15,000 tourists. After the attack, there was a sharp decline. But now bookings are slowly returning,” he said.
He said there has been a massive security review and CCTVs have been installed across Gulmarg, including near the Gondola and key tourist spots. “Surveillance has improved. Even road connectivity has gotten better,” he said.
While current figures remain below pre-April levels, stakeholders are hopeful. “Cancellations are being reversed. Hotel queries are rising again. We expect tourism to pick up after August 15 and in the winter season. Gulmarg is especially popular during snowfall, and we are preparing to make this winter vibrant and welcoming for both domestic and international tourists,” he added.
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