Why Did Jammu and Kashmir L-G Order the Reopening of Key Tourist Spots?

Srinagar, June 14 (NationPress) Jammu and Kashmir's Lt Governor Manoj Sinha announced on Saturday the reopening of all key tourist attractions across the union territory, a crucial move aimed at revitalizing tourism and lifting restrictions imposed after Operation Sindoor.

In a statement to the media, the L-G confirmed that all tourist sites that were closed following Operation Sindoor in J&K are now accessible. Many significant tourist spots had been shuttered due to heightened security measures after the operation.

The reopened sites include Betab Valley in Pahalgam, Kokernag, Achabal Park in Anantnag district, Badamwari (Srinagar), Nigeen Park (Srinagar), Taqdeer Park near Hazratbal, and various public parks in the Jammu region.

These areas were temporarily closed due to security concerns, but after comprehensive evaluations by law enforcement and intelligence agencies, it was determined that the situation had improved sufficiently to permit public access.

Lt Governor Manoj Sinha emphasized that restoring normalcy while ensuring public safety is a primary goal for the administration.

“I have mandated the reopening of several tourist sites in the Kashmir and Jammu Divisions, which were closed as precautionary measures. Betab Valley and parks in Pahalgam Market, Verinag Garden, Kokernag Garden, and Achabal Garden will reopen starting June 17. Other locations being reopened include Badamwari Park, Duck Park, Taqdeer Park in Srinagar, as well as Sarthal, Dhaggar in Kathua, Devi Pindi, Siyad Baba, Sula Park in Reasi, Guldanda, Jai Valley in Doda, and Pancheri in Udhampur. The reopening will occur in phases,” said L-G Sinha.

“This decision reflects our confidence in the improved ground situation. We welcome visitors to these sites to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of our Union Territory,” he added.

Security has been intensified around all reopened locations. Local police, paramilitary forces, and civil administration will work together to ensure the safety of both tourists and residents.

Monitoring systems are in place, with security personnel deployed in essential areas to maintain a secure environment.

Authorities have urged visitors to stay vigilant and cooperate with security agencies. Public gatherings, events, and tourism activities will gradually resume based on ongoing assessments of the situation.

The reopening of these sites signifies a positive step in Jammu and Kashmir’s journey toward normalcy and development.

The administration has committed to continuous monitoring and a rapid response to any potential challenges that may arise.

Tourism had significantly dwindled in Kashmir following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, perpetrated by Pakistan-backed LeT terrorists, resulting in the death of 26 civilians, including 25 tourists and a local pony owner.

Before the Pahalgam attack, 140 flights from various airlines landed daily at Srinagar airport. Currently, air traffic has dropped to approximately 50 flights per day.