‘Tourism has taken a major hit’
Irfan Tramboo
Srinagar, May 17: Stating that tourism has been severely affected following the Pahalgam terror attack, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said today that the Government is currently focused on ensuring an incident-free upcoming Amarnath Yatra.
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Speaking to reporters here, Omar said the Government will focus on promoting tourism only after the yatra concludes, noting that tourism has taken a major hit, with hardly any visitors coming to Kashmir.
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“Tourism has been hit quite badly, and we have had very few tourists visiting Kashmir this summer. Right now, our focus is on the Amarnath Yatra — we want it to pass incident-free, and for all the yatris to return safe and sound. After that, we will look into ways to promote tourism,” he said.
Regarding the ceasefire, the Chief Minister said it continues to hold and that there have been no reports of violations anywhere.
“For now, the ceasefire along the LoC is holding. There are no reports of violations — not on the LoC and not along the border. As of now, there is peace, and we should be content with that.”
When asked about the ceasefire extension between India and Pakistan, Omar said that as long as peace prevails without shelling or blasts, it is a welcome situation. “We want there to be peace,” he added.
On the issue of damage assessment and compensation for those affected by the shelling along borders and LoC, the Chief Minister said the assessment process is underway, and support will also be sought from the Central Government.
“The damage assessment is being conducted. Once we receive the report, we will prepare a compensation package. We will do whatever we can from our end, and if necessary, seek assistance from the Centre,” he said.
Regarding the Parliamentary delegation named by the Government to visit various countries — including members of the UN Security Council — in the context of Operation Sindoor and India’s fight against cross-border terrorism, Omar said similar initiatives were taken during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s tenure following the Parliament attack.
“A similar Parliamentary delegation was sent to different countries back then. The same is being done now to present the country’s stance before key nations. It’s a good opportunity,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chief Minister today met several delegations, individuals for the 2nd consecutive day at Raabta Office here.
He reaffirmed his Government’s unwavering commitment to addressing the genuine concerns of the people, stating that public service is not merely an administrative responsibility, but a solemn duty.
“We are duty-bound to resolve all genuine issues of our citizens with empathy and urgency,” the Chief Minister said during a day-long public outreach program at the Raabita Office in Srinagar.
He emphasized that the true essence of governance lies in active listening, meaningful engagement and timely redressal of grievances.
“Voices from every corner of Jammu and Kashmir will be heard, respected and acted upon with sincerity and resolve,” he asserted.
Throughout the day, the Chief Minister met several public delegations and individuals who flagged a range of issues and demands for resolution.
The inhabitants of Government Housing Colony, Ompora, Budgam apprised the Chief Minister of various civic issues under the jurisdiction of the Housing Board.
Delegations representing both factions of the Kashmir Traders & Manufacturers Federation discussed the persistent challenges faced by the traders community across the Valley.
J&K Private Empanelled Hospitals & Dialysis Centers Association highlighted critical concerns regarding private sector healthcare infrastructure and policy support.
A deputation from the All India Fair Price Shop Dealers Federation raised several long-standing demands of fair price shop owners, urging timely intervention.
Chairman of the Industrial Growth Centre, Lassipora brought attention to issues concerning the Industrial Estate at Lassipora, Pulwama, seeking policy and infrastructure support for industrial growth.
A delegation from the Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC) presented their grievances related to service conditions.
All J&K Panchayat Secretaries Association highlighted issues surrounding their career progression and service regularization.
Residents from Nishat, Srinagar brought local concerns to the notice of the Chief Minister, including land-related matters and basic civic infrastructure.
In addition, several individuals met the Chief Minister to discuss a wide range of personal and community issues.
The Chief Minister assured all deputations that their concerns would be addressed on priority and resolved through a responsive and people-centric approach.
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