On Sunday 18th May, the stakeholders went an extra mile to try and revive Jamu & Kashmir’s tourism from the Pahalgam terror attack’s blow, organising a roadshow starting from the Srinagar’s Dal Lake to the scenic town. A large convoy of cabs were set out from the deserted ghats of Dal, where Shikaras were tied up and shops along the Boulevard were closed. But the road show was shopped in Anantnag town, 30km before Pahalgam, over security reasons.
The roadshow aimed in conveying the message across the country, that Kashmir was safe. Chief minister bemoaned the severe impact of Pahalgam attack on tourism, that followed an exodus of tourist and a rash of cancellations. Dal’s Boulevard Road which used to be abuzz with activities earlier was seen empty on Sunday also.
Though, the vacant Dal’s roads didn’t deter the organisers of the roadshow. “Invest in Kashmir’s future, Tourism and peace go hand in hand” slogans were pasted on the cars, the cavalcade was flagged off by Tanvir Sadiq, legislator and spokesman of CM Omar’s National Conference. Stakeholders included shikara operators, hoteliers, transporters, tour guides and travel agents.
After the attack, Kashmir is fighting a war of Perception and the event was a key milestone in the efforts to restore confidence among tourist, aiming defeat to those who portray the region as unsafe, said Sadiq. He admitted that the road to revival of tourism was filled with difficulties but insisted that initiatives like the roadshow would help in turning the tide. The roadshow will also convey to people of the country that Kashmiris stood against terrorism and now it is their turn to stand by Kashmiris and return the Valley.
CM Omar had expressed dismay, regarding the impact of terror strike. “This summer season has been lost. Hardly any tourists are visiting now. Our current focus is on ensuring Amarnath Yatra (from 3rd July) is conducted peacefully. We want every Pilgrim to return safely. After That, we will look at ways to revive and promote tourism in the region,” said Omar on Saturday.
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