J&K CM Omar Abdullah Says It’s Time To Reopen Closed Tourist Spots, Plans Discussion With Amit Shah
Chief Minister emphasizes tourism revival, streamlined registration, and youth employment initiatives
Jammu, Feb 5: Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Thursday said he will raise the reopening of closed tourist destinations with Union Home Minister Amit Shah during his upcoming visit to the UT. Speaking in the Assembly, Abdullah noted that several sites remain closed following the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 tourists were killed.
“I believe the time has come to reopen them. Discussions with the Government of India are ongoing, and the Home Minister’s visit will provide an opportunity to address this issue,” he told the House, assuring particularly affected constituencies such as Bandipora that the matter will be prioritised.
Abdullah also highlighted reforms in tourism administration. The existing Jammu and Kashmir Tourist Trade Rules, framed in 1978, are being revised to simplify registration and renewal procedures for hotels, homestays, travel agencies, and other tourism units. The new system aims to be more transparent, user-friendly, and strictly time-bound, ensuring registration or renewal within 30 days under the Public Service Guarantee Act.
The Chief Minister underscored the economic importance of tourism in J&K, noting that promotional events, festivals, and outsourced assets like cafeterias, huts, and parking areas provide regular employment for local youth. Simplified homestay registration is expected to encourage community participation and promote inclusive tourism development, particularly in border and rural areas.
Abdullah acknowledged the historical challenges in the registration system, including delays and potential corruption, and pledged that the government is committed to making the process efficient and accountable.
He further announced plans to develop new tourist destinations across J&K, including sites in Ramban district such as Godagali, Nathatop, Daggan Top, Neel Top, Mahoo, Sarvadhar (Pogal Paristan), Sargali Pogal, Chanderkote, and Bhatni. For 2025-26, Rs 1.17 crore has been allocated under the Capex Budget for tourism infrastructure in the Banihal-Gool constituency.
These measures reflect the government’s broader vision to revive tourism, enhance local livelihoods, and modernize regulatory frameworks to boost investment and visitor access across the Union Territory.
