Srinagar, Feb 4 (NationPress) In spite of the significant blow to the tourism sector caused by the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir on April 22 last year, which led to the tragic loss of 26 innocent lives, including 25 tourists and a local pony owner due to the actions of Pakistani terrorists, over 1.78 crore tourists flocked to the Union Territory in 2025.

The warm hospitality of the local populace and the trust placed by visitors in the integrity of residents has thwarted the sinister plans of those wishing to undermine peace and prosperity in Jammu and Kashmir.

The Lieutenant Governor (L-G) of Jammu and Kashmir, Manoj Sinha, stated on Wednesday that tourism remains a vital pillar of the Union Territory's economy, despite facing security challenges.

In his speech to the Legislative Assembly, L-G Sinha highlighted that even with security threats and natural disasters, the region welcomed more than 1.78 crore tourists last year.

He pointed out the challenges posed by the Pahalgam terror attack, the devastating floods of 2025, and Operation Sindoor.

Due to its economic significance, tourism has been designated as an industry in Jammu and Kashmir to draw in investments and create job opportunities.

L-G Sinha particularly commended the establishment of the Chrysanthemum garden, 'Bagh-e-Gul-Dawood', which debuted as a prominent autumn tourist attraction in Srinagar last year.

With over 50 vibrant varieties of Chrysanthemum, this garden plays a crucial role in transforming Kashmir into a year-round tourist destination.

“There has been a concerted effort to enhance pilgrim tourism in Jammu, adventure tourism in Kashmir, and eco-friendly tourism in border areas to promote balanced development across Jammu and Kashmir,” the L-G remarked.

He mentioned that the Union government is formulating a sustainable initiative for developing new tourist attractions through public-private partnerships.

Turning his attention to the power sector, the L-G reported significant improvements with the introduction of new hydro-power projects such as Pakal Dul, Kiru, Ratle, and Kwar, which collectively hold a potential of 3,014 megawatts.

L-G Sinha expressed satisfaction that over the past five years, the distribution system has added 5,708 MVA capacity and 4,239 MVA capacity to the transmission sector in Jammu and Kashmir.

He indicated that power losses have decreased by nine percent, while revenue realization has risen by 16 percent within the Union Territory.

Furthermore, the solarization of government buildings and private residences through the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana has bolstered the adoption of renewable energy.

As part of this flagship scheme, a total of 6,700 government establishments and 16,800 homes have successfully been solarized.

A historic achievement in connectivity was reached with the establishment of a railway link connecting the Valley to the rest of the country.

The L-G referenced the modernization of the Jammu Tawi Railway station and the creation of a dedicated railway division for Jammu and Kashmir.