Being a hotelier, how do you see the future of the hotel industry in the city?

The hotel industry is one of the best industries in Jammu and Kashmir, serving locals and non-locals from several corners including the city. To maintain high standards, there is a need for marketing to lure high footfall of visitors. I think the city, which is the heart of Kashmir valley, can be the best ambassador of high standards of Kashmir’s hotel industry.

Srinagar is going to be a smart city as per SMC. What steps are required to make it smart?

It needs a lot of things to be in place. I don’t know about their plans. There is nothing visible so far on the ground about making Srinagar a smart city. If we will have a smart and beautiful city, it will obviously persuade outsiders to visit. The government should come forward to ensure green zones in the city. These areas should be planted with trees and flowers. We should offer our duties and assist the government with developmental works. 

What facilities need to be provided for tourists in a smart city?

Our hotels should be at par while providing facilities. They should have international standards. If we fail to provide the best facilities, how can outsiders visit the valley despite possessing natural beauty? We are famous all over the world for our hospitality. Guests should be attended wholeheartedly besides giving them better facilities so that not only they can visit Kashmir but also be ambassadors for others. I am very proud that so far our hotel industry has provided high standard services to visitors in the valley.

What are the hurdles in making Srinagar a smart city?

There are many hurdles but if the government wishes and people also take ownership of the city, then it won’t be tough to make Srinagar a smart and better city. What is needed is that authorities should gear up to make our city a smart city at the earliest. When large cities in India and abroad have been changed and beautified, why can’t a small city like Srinagar remain unchanged? People have to cooperate with the government for this. 

What is your message to the government and the people?

There is an emergent need to make Srinagar a smart city. The government should put its best efforts into it. In order to make Srinagar a smart city, the government has to do many things – for instance, the initiation of Metro, which is a welcome step.