Jammu, May 21: Raman Suri, Executive Member of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), on Wednesday addressed the pressing issue of declining tourism in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly in the Jammu division, following the tragic Pahalgam attack. He expressed deep concern over the steep decline in tourist inflow, which has severely impacted the region’s economy, including a significant drop in pilgrimages to the revered Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji Shrine.
“Tourism is the backbone of Jammu and Kashmir’s economy, but the sector is currently grappling with a severe recession due to the situation arising from the Pahalgam massacre,” Suri said in a statement. “While the Kashmir Valley has been the focus of attention, the Jammu division and its adjoining areas, which are calmer and safer, are also suffering significant losses.
The decline in pilgrimages to Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Ji is particularly alarming, as it is a major spiritual and economic driver for the region.” With two major events on the horizon—Mela Mata Shri Kheer Bhawani ji and the Shri Amarnath ji Cave Shrine Yatra, Suri urged the UT Government to act swiftly to restore confidence among tourists and pilgrims.
He acknowledged the government’s commitment to formulating an effective action plan by engaging with stakeholders to revive tourism. However, he cautioned that the current efforts appear to be disproportionately focused on the Kashmir Valley, leaving the Jammu division’s potential untapped.
“The government’s intentions are not in doubt, but the indications suggest that its efforts are largely limited to the Kashmir Valley,” Suri remarked. “The loss suffered by the Jammu division must be taken seriously. In the present circumstances, when Jammu is relatively peaceful and secure, there is immense potential to attract tourists and pilgrims to its scenic and spiritual destinations.”
Suri emphasised the untapped tourism potential of Jammu’s remote hilly areas and picturesque locations situated 25-30 km from major highways. He highlighted destinations such as Chenani, Sudh-Mahadev, Bani, Basohli and Lati, besides other such destinations located near the popular hill stations of Bhaderwah and Patnitop, as ideal spots for promotion.
The BJP leader pointed to the ancient Krimchi Mansar Temple, believed to have been built by the Pandavas, located just before Pancheri, Udhampur. These areas, known for their serene climate and historical significance, are free from terrorism and far from the international border and Line of Control (LoC), making them safe and attractive for visitors.
“These locations in the Jammu division have been overlooked from a tourism perspective,” he said. “By promoting these safe and serene destinations, the government can not only boost tourism in the region but also ensure that tourists feel secure, free from the threats of terrorist violence or cross-border shelling by Pakistan.”
Suri called on the UT government to develop a comprehensive strategy to promote Jammu’s tourism and religious sites, including targeted marketing campaigns, infrastructure development, and collaboration with local stakeholders. Such measures, he stressed, would not only revive the region’s economy but also provide a safe and welcoming experience for tourists and pilgrims.
“The BJP stands committed to supporting all efforts to restore Jammu and Kashmir tourism sector to its full potential,” Raman Suri said. “We urge the government to act swiftly and inclusively, ensuring that the Jammu division’s unique offerings are highlighted to bring tourism back on track across the Union Territory.”
