Srinagar, Feb 16: The J&K Hoteliers Club has welcomed the reopening of tourist destinations across the Union Territory, terming the move a timely and positive step ahead of the upcoming tourism season.
In a statement issued on Monday, Chairman of the Club, Mushtaq Chaya, expressed gratitude to the administration for facilitating the reopening of key tourist spots.
“We are thankful to Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha for ordering the reopening of tourist destinations across Jammu and Kashmir. It will send a positive message as the tourism season is about to begin,” Chaya said.
He said the decision would help restore confidence among tourists, travel operators, hoteliers, transporters and other stakeholders linked to the tourism and hospitality sector. Chaya also appreciated Chief Minister Omar Abdullah for his proactive role in promoting tourism and pursuing the reopening of the destinations.
“We are also thankful to the Chief Minister for his consistent efforts towards tourism promotion and for actively pursuing the reopening of these destinations. His proactive approach has strengthened confidence within the industry,” he added.
The Chairman expressed hope that the remaining tourist destinations would also be reopened in the coming days to ensure a smooth and full-fledged tourism season across the region. Meanwhile, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry Kashmir (CCIK) and its Secretary General, Tariq Rashid Ghani, said the reopening would provide much-needed relief to businesses dependent on tourism.
“We have been consistently advocating for the reopening of tourist destinations as thousands of livelihoods are linked to the sector. This step will help revive economic activity and generate employment, particularly in tourism-dependent areas,” Ghani said.
The Jammu and Kashmir Hoteliers Club reiterated its commitment to working closely with the administration to maintain high standards of hospitality, safety and service as tourist footfall increases.
The Club expressed optimism that the reopening would boost tourist arrivals, revive local businesses and reinforce Jammu and Kashmir’s position as a premier travel destination in the country.
