Is Sabarmati Riverfront Really One of the Nicest Places to Run?
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Synopsis
During his visit to Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah praised the Sabarmati Riverfront as an ideal running location. His trip aims to promote tourism in the Union Territory while addressing recent challenges in Jammu and Kashmir. This visit blends leisure with serious discussions around safety and tourism recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Omar Abdullah praises Sabarmati Riverfront as an ideal running location.
- The visit aims to promote tourism recovery in Jammu and Kashmir.
- Abdullah addresses security lapses linked to recent attacks.
- Engagement with tour operators is crucial for rebuilding trust.
- Inter-state relations and collaboration are key for inclusive development.
Ahmedabad, July 31 (NationPress) Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah, is currently on a two-day trip to Gujarat with the aim of enhancing tourism in the Union Territory. During his visit, he took to social media to commend the Sabarmati Riverfront in Ahmedabad, describing it as “one of the nicest places” he has had the pleasure of running.
During a morning jog along the renowned promenade, CM Abdullah is engaging with tour operators to reconnect with an important domestic travel market after the devastating Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which severely affected tourism in Kashmir.
He shared on X: “While in #Ahmedabad for a tourism event, I seized the opportunity to enjoy my morning run at the iconic Sabarmati River Front promenade. It’s truly one of the finest locations I’ve run in, and I relished the company of numerous other walkers and runners. I even had the chance to jog past the stunning Atal Foot Bridge.”
This light-hearted tweet contrasted with the serious purpose of his visit: to restore tourist confidence in Jammu and Kashmir following the tragic attack that resulted in the loss of 26 lives, including many Gujaratis.
During a significant tourism outreach event, CM Abdullah emphasized the importance of re-establishing Jammu and Kashmir as a safe and inviting destination. “Gujarat, along with Maharashtra and West Bengal, has historically played a pivotal role in Kashmir’s tourism economy,” he stated, expressing optimism that Gujarati tourists would return in substantial numbers. However, his visit also bore a strong political message.
In a media briefing on July 30, Abdullah voiced sharp criticism towards the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration for intelligence and security failures tied to the Pahalgam attack. “Even the Lieutenant Governor has acknowledged there was a lapse. If that’s the situation, accountability is necessary,” he remarked.
Though the three terrorists responsible for the attack have been neutralized, CM Abdullah pointed out that no actions have been taken against officials accountable for the lapses.
He further questioned the Centre’s assertions following the abrogation of Article 370. “They claimed terrorism would cease after the removal of 370. Five years have passed, and terrorists are still being addressed. Where are those promises?” he inquired.
Earlier on Wednesday, he had a meeting with Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar, focusing on strengthening inter-state relations, boosting tourism, and exchanging best practices for inclusive development.
Point of View
Omar Abdullah's visit underscores the dual importance of tourism and safety in Jammu and Kashmir. While promoting the region's beauty and potential, he also addresses pressing security concerns, highlighting the need for accountability and proactive measures. This balance between celebration and caution is crucial for restoring faith in the region's tourism.
NationPress
31/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What was Omar Abdullah's purpose for visiting Gujarat?
Omar Abdullah visited Gujarat to promote tourism in Jammu and Kashmir and to engage with tour operators.
What did Abdullah say about the Sabarmati Riverfront?
He described it as “one of the nicest places” he has run.
What is the significance of this visit?
The visit aims to restore tourist confidence in Jammu and Kashmir following the recent Pahalgam terror attack.
How did Abdullah address security concerns?
He criticized the Centre and the Jammu and Kashmir administration for failures in intelligence and security related to the attack.
What did he hope for regarding Gujarati tourists?
He expressed hope that Gujarati tourists would return in large numbers to Jammu and Kashmir.
