‘Tourists Return to Pahalgam’, says Omar Abdullah; Revival Efforts Showing Results

GG News Bureau
Srinagar, 23rd June: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday expressed satisfaction over the resurgence of tourism in the Valley, particularly in Pahalgam, which had seen a sharp decline in visitors following the April 22 terror attack that claimed 26 lives.

Sharing his experience on social media platform X, Abdullah said, “The last time I was in Pahalgam, I cycled through a market that was all but deserted. Today, I came back to a Pahalgam that was bustling with activity.”

He noted that tourists from across the country are now sharing space with local picnickers, enjoying the scenic beauty, cool climate, and rainy weather in the popular hill station.

Abdullah credited the recovery to the continued efforts by his government and local authorities to restore confidence and promote tourism after the tragic Baisaran meadow attack, in which 25 tourists and a pony operator were killed.

“It’s very satisfying to see the efforts my colleagues and I have been putting in slowly bearing fruit,” he added, underlining the significance of tourism for Kashmir’s economy and social fabric.