Excelsior Correspondent
SRINAGAR, Dec 11: Director of Tourism Kashmir, Raja Yaqoob, today said that the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), is in advanced discussions to allow trekkers to use satellite phones in remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir.
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Speaking at a function in Srinagar to mark International Mountain Day, Yaqoob said the initiative aims to address the lack of network connectivity in high-altitude and inaccessible regions, ensuring the safety of tourists and trekkers.
The Director also highlighted that Jammu and Kashmir is witnessing a rise in foreign tourist arrivals this year, with numbers steadily increasing. Popular trekking routes, such as the Kashmir Great Lakes and Tarsar Marsar, are drawing significant interest from domestic and international tourists.
“Every day, we have 200-500 foreign tourists arriving, which is immensely encouraging despite the delayed snowfall,” he said.
In addition to trekking, he said, activities like rafting in Gurez Valley, paragliding at various locations, and hot air balloon rides in Zabarwan Park have become major attractions.
The region also hosted its first international marathon this year, with participants from 13 countries and 59 international tourists. “The Government is now engaging with the World Rafting Federation to organize an international rafting championship, which will bring global recognition to Kashmir’s adventure tourism,” he added.
He said to support the growing demand for adventure activities; the tourism department has made significant investments in infrastructure and equipment. “This year, the government allocated funds in the Capex budget for advanced trekking instruments, tents, skiing equipment, and a snow groomer machine to maintain slopes,” Yaqoob noted.
Stressing the importance of mountains, he said, “Mountains provide fresh water and are critical to our ecosystem. With climate change and over-exploitation, it is essential to acknowledge their significance in our lives.”
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