Can Eight Punjab and Haryana HC Judges Revive Kashmir Tourism After the Pahalgam Terror Attack?

Synopsis
In a bold move to restore faith in Kashmir's tourism, eight judges from the Punjab and Haryana High Court are visiting the valley post the recent Pahalgam terror attack. Their journey aims to uplift the region's image and support local tourism, signaling safety and resilience amidst adversity.
Key Takeaways
- Judicial Presence: The visit of judges underscores the commitment to restoring peace in the region.
- Tourism Revival: Local tourism is showing signs of recovery post-attack.
- Community Resilience: The local populace is coming together to support and promote tourism.
- Safety Assurance: The judges' presence aims to reassure visitors of Kashmir's safety.
- Support for Local Economy: Increased tourism can help revitalize the local economy.
Srinagar, June 9 (NationPress) To provide a significant moral uplift to Kashmir tourism following the Pahalgam terror incident, eight judges from the Punjab and Haryana High Court are embarking on a visit to the valley with their families.
This presence of esteemed legal figures alongside their families sends a resounding message aimed at the rejuvenation of tourism in Kashmir, which has faced severe setbacks after the Pahalgam terror attack.
On April 22, terrorists from Lashkar-e-Kashmir (LeT), backed by Pakistan, tragically claimed the lives of 26 civilians, including 25 tourists and a local pony owner.
The pony owner heroically lost his life while attempting to shield tourists from the terrorists’ gunfire.
The attack sparked outrage nationwide, prompting the Indian Armed Forces to conduct airstrikes against terrorist infrastructures in Pakistan as part of Operation Sindoor.
In response to India’s military action, Pakistan retaliated with heavy mortar shelling on civilian areas in Poonch, Rajouri, Baramulla, Kupwara, and Bandipora districts.
The shelling resulted in the deaths of 18 civilians, 13 of whom were in Poonch district, alongside extensive damage to numerous homes, shops, a temple, a mosque, a church, and a Gurudwara.
The itinerary for the visiting judges includes excursions to the Mughal Gardens of Nishat and Shalimar, Shikara rides on the iconic Dal Lake, a visit to the historic Pari Mahal, and shopping for local handicrafts.
There could be no better sign for the revival of Kashmir’s tourism than the decision of these honorable justices to visit with their families.
Alongside the judges' visit, local tour operators and hotel owners are beginning to report a slow but steady increase in tourist bookings, which had nearly come to a halt after the terror attack.
Tour operators and others involved in the tourism sector are optimistic that the presence of such respected legal dignitaries, including high court judges, will help restore confidence among both domestic and international visitors, reaffirming that Kashmir is a safe destination for tourism.